The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has raised alarms over what it describes as desperate attempts to silence and discredit the leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC). This follows recent police actions and allegations leveled against the NLC, which CISLAC believes are part of a broader strategy to undermine the rights and advocacy efforts of Nigerian workers.

In a press statement issued by CISLAC’s Executive Director, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organization expressed shock and concern over the sudden deployment of heavily armed security personnel to the NLC complex, known as Labour House, on August 7, 2024. The siege occurred shortly after the NLC’s National Executive Council meeting, where members condemned the government’s use of force during the recent #EndBadGovernance protests.

Further deepening these concerns is the summoning of NLC President Joe Ajaero by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Intelligence Response Team (IRT). According to an official letter, Ajaero is being called to answer allegations of “criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, treasonable felony, subversion, and cybercrime.” He is scheduled to appear at the IRT Complex in Guzape District, Abuja, on August 20, 2024.

CISLAC emphasized that while it does not oppose lawful investigations, such probes must be conducted transparently and without bias. The organization stressed the importance of an open process that allows Nigerians to observe the proceedings, ensuring that the government is not fabricating charges against the NLC. CISLAC warned that the integrity of both the NLC and the police force is at stake.

The statement further highlighted the frustrations of many Nigerians over the government’s failure to address the activities of known criminals, including terrorist financiers, kidnappers, and bandits, who continue to terrorize citizens with impunity. CISLAC pointed out the recent kidnapping of the Emir of Gobir and the failure of security agencies to apprehend the culprits, raising serious doubts about their effectiveness.

In stark contrast, CISLAC noted that security forces have been documented using live ammunition against peaceful protesters, further undermining public trust. The organization criticized what it described as a “misplacement of priorities” by the police, who appear more focused on stifling legitimate dissent than on combating actual threats to national security.

CISLAC also expressed dismay over the plight of police officers, who, like many other citizens, suffer from poor governance and substandard living conditions. The organization urged President Bola Tinubu to take personal action to prevent further damage to Nigeria’s international reputation, which could be severely affected by the perceived suppression of civil liberties.

In its closing remarks, CISLAC called on non-state actors, including journalists, civil society organizations, and other trade unions, to remain vigilant. The organization warned that the tactics used against the NLC could soon be directed at other groups advocating for democracy and social justice in Nigeria.