The American Federation of Labour and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) has strongly denounced the recent violent attacks on trade unions in Nigeria, particularly the August 7 raid on the Nigeria Labor Congress’ (NLC) headquarters in Abuja.
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler and Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond issued a joint statement condemning the incident, calling it “a worrying sign that free and democratic activities are in jeopardy” in Nigeria.
The August 7 raid resulted in the seizure of property, which the AFL-CIO demands be returned to the NLC immediately. The organization has also called for a full investigation into the incident.
“For decades, the NLC has played a critical role in promoting fundamental freedoms and democratic values through its fight for fair wages, safe working conditions, and social justice for working people across Nigeria,” the statement noted
The AFL-CIO said it stands in solidarity with the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) in condemning the attacks.
“The AFL-CIO calls for a full investigation into the incident and for the property that was taken during the raid to be returned to the NLC without delay,” the organisation stated.
The AFL-CIO therefore urged the U.S. State Department to join in condemning the violence, labeling it “an act of terrorism” against the NLC.
Our correspondent reports that this latest incident is part of a growing pattern of targeted attacks on the NLC, prompting concerns about the erosion of democratic rights and freedoms in Nigeria.
The AFL-CIO’s statement emphasizes the need for international pressure to protect trade union rights and democratic values in Nigeria.
The Nigerian government faces mounting pressure to address the escalating violence against trade unions and protect the rights of its citizens.
