The Nigerian government has firmly rejected claims of human rights abuses made at the Trade Union Congress (TUC) conference in the United Kingdom. The accusations surfaced when the TUC leader criticized Nigeria for alleged violations, sparking controversy.
In a response issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the Nigerian government dismissed these claims as false. The statement emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and its dedication to constitutional governance.
The issue arose in the context of an ongoing investigation involving Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), who was reportedly barred from leaving the country after failing to comply with a summons from Nigerian authorities. The government clarified that Ajaero was not being targeted because of his position but was simply expected to adhere to legal procedures, like any other citizen.
“Nigeria is a country governed by law, and no one, including Mr. Ajaero, is exempt from the legal obligations that bind all citizens,” Onanuga stated. He added that comparisons could be made to other countries where public figures, such as former U.S. President Donald Trump and Hunter Biden, have faced legal investigations.
The Nigerian government countered the TUC’s allegations, asserting that President Bola Tinubu remains a staunch advocate for civil liberties. Onanuga also addressed the relationship between the government and labor unions, acknowledging occasional policy disagreements but emphasizing ongoing good-faith engagements.
Furthermore, the statement criticized some of the ideological positions taken by Nigerian labor unions, particularly referencing the unions’ opposition to the 2007 sale of refineries in Port Harcourt and Kaduna, which, the government argued, stunted the nation’s economic progress. In contrast, the success of private ventures like the Dangote refinery was cited as evidence of effective economic policies.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to promoting national prosperity and economic growth while maintaining open dialogue with labor unions. The Tinubu administration vowed to continue implementing policies that prioritize the well-being of Nigerians while adhering to the principles of justice and law.
