FG rejects UK TUC’s allegation of human rights abuse

The Federal Government has dismissed the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of the United Kingdom’s allegation of human rights abuses and violations in Nigeria, stating that the accusations are unfounded and based on a misunderstanding of the situation.

In a statement issued by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the government emphasized that no person is above the law in Nigeria. The statement was in response to the TUC’s claims made during its conference in London, where the Nigerian government was falsely accused of rights abuse.

The government explained that the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, was stopped from traveling abroad after he ignored an invitation from a law enforcement agency conducting an ongoing investigation. Ajaero’s actions have serious consequences, as no one is above the law in Nigeria.

The statement highlighted that Nigeria is a country governed by the Constitution, just like the United Kingdom and other civilized nations. It cited examples of former President Donald Trump and Hunter Biden being subject to investigations and prosecutions in the United States, demonstrating that no one is above the law.

The government rejected any notion of human rights violations in Nigeria, stating that the accusations made by the TUC are unfounded and based on a misunderstanding of the situation. It emphasized that the President is a pro-democracy activist who will protect civil liberties and the rights of all citizens.

The statement also noted that there is no adversarial relationship between the Labour Movement in Nigeria and the government, and that the government has consistently shown readiness to engage with labour on any issue despite political partisanship.

Additionally, the government highlighted that labour unions’ ideological positions have often stunted economic growth and development in Nigeria, compromising the well-being of workers and the poor. It cited the example of the opposition to the sale of Port-Harcourt and Kaduna Refineries in 2007, which led to the refineries not functioning, while Aliko Dangote built the largest single-train refinery in the world.

The administration of President Tinubu will continue to promote the best economic interest of Nigerians, pursue policies and programs that expand national economic output, and create prosperity for citizens.

Vanguard