In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing leadership crisis within the Labour Party, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President Joe Ajaero has reportedly directed union members across the country to occupy LP offices nationwide, according to sources close to the labour movement.
The directive comes amid growing tensions between factions within the party, with the NLC leadership expressing frustration over what they describe as attempts to sideline the organized labour movement from the party’s decision-making processes.
Speaking to our correspondent on condition of anonymity, a senior NLC official revealed that Ajaero’s instructions were communicated during an emergency meeting held yesterday at the Congress headquarters in Abuja.
The president was clear about reclaiming the Labour Party’s original mission as the political arm of Nigerian workers, the source stated. He believes the current situation requires decisive action to prevent the party from drifting away from its founding principles.
The Labour Party has been embroiled in internal wranglings since the aftermath of the 2023 general elections, with disagreements over party structure, leadership appointments, and ideological direction creating deep divisions among stakeholders.
Political analysts view this move as potentially significant for Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly as the country adjusts to new realities following recent political developments. The Labour Party, which gained considerable momentum during the last electoral cycle, has struggled to maintain unity amid competing interests.
When contacted, the official spokesperson for the Labour Party expressed surprise at the reported directive, stating that the party’s national leadership had not received formal communication regarding any planned takeover of its facilities.
We are aware of ongoing discussions with our labour partners, but we cannot confirm any authorized plan to occupy party offices, the spokesperson said.
The situation remains fluid as regional NLC chapters reportedly begin mobilization efforts in response to the directive. Security agencies are said to be monitoring developments to prevent potential breaches of peace at party locations nationwide.