A Civil Society Organization, Nigeria Integrity Watch, has cautioned the National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajero, against involving the labour movement in a political dispute concerning Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. In a statement issued by its national convener, Dr. John Samuel Nangi, in Abuja, the group expressed concern that the NLC’s interference in the matter could compromise the labour union’s credibility.

The controversy surrounds the Senate’s decision not to allow Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to return to the chamber after serving a six-month suspension. The NLC has publicly criticized the Senate’s stance, describing it as a “descent into legislative dictatorship and democratic anarchy.” The labour union argues that the senator’s suspension has expired and no longer holds legal weight.

However, Nigeria Integrity Watch contends that the NLC has overstepped its bounds by meddling in the legislature’s internal affairs. The group also accuses Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan of disregarding a Federal High Court ruling that required her to issue a public apology and pay a fine of ₦5 million. According to the group, the senator’s actions have been “unnecessarily stubborn, manipulating the media and misleading the nation.”

The statement urged NLC executives to reevaluate Ajero’s leadership, suggesting that he has “lowered the bar of leadership” and reduced the labour body into a “one-man organisation where statements are issued at will.” The group’s warning comes as the NLC continues to push for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return to the Senate, sparking a heated debate about the boundaries of labour union involvement in political disputes.

The development has significant implications for the labour movement in Nigeria, highlighting the need for clarity on the role of labour unions in political matters. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the NLC and the Senate will navigate this complex issue, and what consequences may arise from the labour union’s involvement.