The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has condemned the recent invasion of the Labour House, headquarters of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Abuja, by security operatives.
The Congress in a statement by its President, Festus Osifo described the confiscation of books from the NLC library, allegedly in search of “End Bad Governance” materials, is a troubling act that raises serious concerns about the violation of fundamental rights, including freedom of speech and expression.
It said the action action represents an overreach by security forces and poses a threat to the democratic principles that allow for peaceful dissent and free expression.
The statement reads in part, “We consider this invasion a direct attack on the rights of Nigerian citizens to freely express their views and to access information.
“The TUC calls on the Federal Government to immediately launch a thorough investigation into this incident. Those responsible for authorizing and executing this operation must be held accountable.
“We also demand the prompt return of all seized materials to the NLC library and an explanation for this unjustified action.
“Nigerians must be reassured that their rights are protected and that security agencies operate within the confines of the law, respecting the freedoms guaranteed under our Constitution.”