The Nigeria Labour Congress has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Edo State Government and the police, demanding they vacate the NLC Secretariat in Benin City and return confiscated properties.

In a statement signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja after a National Executive Council meeting in Owerri, Imo State, the union stated that the deadline will expire on January 8, 2025.

The NLC accused the Edo State Government and Governor Monday Okpebholo of orchestrating the invasion of the secretariat, alleging the ransacking of properties and unlawful removal of items to impose an illegitimate leadership on workers.
“This brazen act of impunity included the ransacking of properties and the unlawful removal of items, all in a bid to impose an illegitimate leadership on the workers,” the statement said.

The NLC warned that failure to comply with its demands would result in “unprecedented measures” to defend workers and trade union rights.
During the NEC meeting, the NLC also discussed critical issues affecting Nigerian workers and citizens, including the worsening socio-economic conditions caused by government policies.

The union expressed concern over persistent cash scarcity, which it said has hampered businesses and imposed an exploitative 5% cash withdrawal fee on Nigerians.
“This situation is an unacceptable burden on struggling workers and small businesses, worsening their economic challenges,” the NLC stated.

The Congress called on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to address the cash shortage and ensure availability to stimulate small business transactions and economic growth.

The NLC criticized the ongoing Tax Bill in the National Assembly, accusing lawmakers of sidelining organized labour during its formulation.
“The exclusion of organized labour undermines the principles of tax justice. If labour is not at the table, it is effectively on the menu,” the union said.
It called for broader consultations and meaningful engagement on the bill to ensure it benefits all Nigerians.

The union also raised alarm over the state of insecurity in the country, reporting that Nigerians paid N2.23 trillion in ransom this year amid widespread crime.

“This appalling state of insecurity underscores the urgent need for the government to take decisive action to safeguard lives and property,” the NLC said, adding that many of those affected are workers.