NLC Accuses Government of Silencing Dissent, Seizing Workers’ Funds

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has accused the Federal Government and state governors of actively undermining democracy by stifling dissent, weakening institutions, and unlawfully withholding workers’ contributions—actions the union described as “stealing workers’ sweat.”

NLC President Joe Ajaero made the remarks during the opening of the 21st Rain School of the NLC, held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. He warned that Nigeria is edging dangerously close to authoritarian rule.

Ajaero criticized what he called a systematic clampdown on civil liberties and union activities, which he said was a deliberate strategy to suppress the voices of Nigerian workers ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“We are witnessing an assault on fundamental rights—freedom of speech, the right to assembly, and meaningful participation in governance—all within a supposedly democratic space,” he said.

He further lamented that political leaders appear more focused on electioneering than governance.

“Governance has been abandoned for 2027 politicking. Leaders who should be working to alleviate suffering are instead consumed by power games, leaving workers and ordinary Nigerians to bear the brunt of economic hardship and growing insecurity—all consequences of their policies,” Ajaero added.

The NLC president called for renewed resistance and vigilance among workers, warning that the erosion of rights and democratic values must not go unchallenged.