WoPU Rejects NLC Directive, Defends Workers’ Constitutional Right To Freedom Of Association, Movement describes alleged boycott directive against its Lagos inauguration as undemocratic, calls for respect for workers’ rights

Working People United (WoPU) has rejected what it described as a directive by some officials within the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) asking leaders of affiliated unions to boycott the inauguration of the WoPU Lagos State Chapter, insisting that Nigerian workers have a constitutionally protected right to freely associate with organisations of their choice.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator-General, Comrade Prince Akporeha Williams, and General Secretary, Comrade Oladapo Sunday Moses, WoPU said the reported directive amounted to an unacceptable attempt to restrict workers’ freedom of association and political participation.

The organisation said its position is anchored on Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which guarantees the right of every person to assemble freely and associate with others, including belonging to a political party, trade union or other association for the protection of their interests. Nigerian courts have also repeatedly recognised freedom of association as a constitutionally protected right.

WoPU further cited Nigeria's obligations under ILO Convention No. 87 on Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise and ILO Convention No. 98 on the Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining. The International Labour Organization confirms that Nigeria ratified both conventions on October 17, 1960, and that they remain in force.

WoPU challenges alleged NLC directive

According to the movement, a circular circulating on social media allegedly instructed presidents and general secretaries of NLC-affiliated unions to stay away from its Lagos State Chapter inauguration.

WoPU described the reported directive as “dictatorial” and argued that individual workers should not be compelled to adopt a particular political affiliation or prevented from participating in an association of their choice.

The organisation said it does not seek to replace or undermine the NLC or any established labour organisation, describing itself instead as a broader movement comprising people from formal and informal sectors, including artisans, market men and women, professionals and other working Nigerians.

“No organisation, no matter how powerful, has the right to tell Nigerian workers which associations they can join,” WoPU stated, adding that its members should be free to participate in political and civic activities in accordance with their constitutional rights.

Movement declares support for Tinubu's 2027 re-election

WoPU also reaffirmed its support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, as well as what it described as progressive-minded candidates.

The movement said its political position is a matter of choice by its members and should not be interpreted as an attempt to undermine organised labour.

It also rejected what it described as attempts by individuals within the labour movement to dictate the political preferences of Nigerian workers.

Legal framework cited by WoPU

WoPU's statement referenced Section 40 of the Constitution, ILO Conventions 87 and 98, and the Trade Unions Act in advancing its position.

However, the legal framework surrounding labour organisations and political activity is more nuanced than the statement suggests. The Trade Unions Act regulates trade unions and, among other provisions, places restrictions on the use of trade-union funds for political support of elected officials.

Nigerian courts, meanwhile, have affirmed the broad constitutional protection of freedom of association while recognising that the right is subject to constitutional and statutory limitations in certain circumstances.

WoPU therefore called on the NLC to withdraw the alleged directive, respect the constitutional rights of workers and avoid actions that could be interpreted as intimidation or coercion.

Call for protection of workers' rights

The movement also appealed to Nigerian workers to exercise their constitutional rights peacefully and responsibly, while urging security agencies and relevant government authorities to protect citizens against harassment or intimidation.

WoPU specifically expressed solidarity with its Lagos State Chapter Chairperson, Comrade Funmi Sessi, and said any attempt to intimidate or malign her because of her association with the movement would be resisted through lawful means.

The organisation said it would continue to promote what it described as the unity, productivity and progress of Nigerian working people.

“WoPU remains committed to the unity, productivity and progress of Nigerian working people. We shall not be silenced by intimidation,” the statement declared.

The movement concluded by urging all Nigerians to remain responsible citizens and participate peacefully in the country's democratic process.