The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), advising them to cease their involvement in the Labour Party’s activities.
This caution stems from a breach of the Trade Unions Act, as the NLC had refused to recognize the party’s chairman, Julius Abure, and issued contradictory directives to party members through its National Transition Committee.
Abure had sought clarification from the Ministry of Labour and Employment on July 10, 2024, regarding the NLC’s roles.
In a response dated July 31, 2024, the Ministry, referencing Section 15 of the Trade Unions Act, emphasized that trade union funds should not be used for political purposes unless explicitly allowed by the union’s rules.
The Ministry’s letter, signed by Director/Registrar of Trade Unions Falonipe Amos, stressed that such misuse of funds is an offense under the Act.
The letter urged the NLC and TUC leadership to adhere to these legal provisions in their dealings with the Labour Party and other political entities.
This development serves as a formal notice to the NLC and TUC to refrain from further interference in the Labour Party’s matters.
“I wish to urge the leadership of the NLC to be guided by the above provisions of the Trade Unions Act in dealing with the Labour Party and any other political parties,” the letter read.
