The Labour Party (LP) has heightened security at its national secretariat in Abuja amid growing tensions with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), which is reportedly planning a takeover of the party's offices nationwide.
During a visit to the LP headquarters located in the Utako area of the Federal Capital Territory, The PUNCH observed the presence of at least six armed police officers actively patrolling the premises. In addition to law enforcement personnel, private security operatives deployed by party loyalists to the embattled National Chairman, Julius Abure, were also stationed around the building.
Confirming the security measures, LP’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, revealed that the party was acting on credible intelligence reports suggesting that affiliates of the NLC may attempt to storm the headquarters.
“We are simply taking precautionary measures,” Ifoh said. “Earlier this year, the NLC made open threats to seize our secretariat. As a result, we had to alert the police and other security agencies to ensure law and order.”
He added, “We are a law-abiding political party and will never resort to violence. However, we have the legal and moral right to protect our offices and staff. The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, has made it clear that they intend to take over our secretariat within days. That’s a direct threat.”
NLC Mobilises for Nationwide Occupation of LP Offices
The intensified security follows reports that the NLC has instructed its state branches to mobilize for the occupation of all 36 state Labour Party secretariats, including the national headquarters in Abuja.
While the full scope of the NLC’s grievances remains unclear, insiders suggest the union’s concerns are rooted in growing dissatisfaction with Julius Abure’s leadership, issues around internal democracy within the party, and the perceived sidelining of organized labour’s role in the party’s structure and decision-making.
Despite mounting pressure, the Abure-led National Working Committee (NWC) insists it will not yield to what it calls “unlawful interference” by the NLC. The party leadership maintains that any forced entry into its offices would be both illegal and disruptive.
Party officials recalled a previous confrontation on March 21, 2024, when NLC President Joe Ajaero, accompanied by several union members, stormed the LP headquarters in what the party described as an “illegal occupation.” According to LP insiders, the aim of that incursion was to gain access to sensitive documents and financial records.
“Such actions amount to a clear breach of democratic norms and due process,” a senior party official said. “The Labour Party may have historic ties to the NLC, but it remains an independent political entity governed by its own constitution and leadership structures.”
Ongoing Power Struggle Raises Concerns
The ongoing standoff between the NLC and the Labour Party signals deeper tensions over control and influence within the party, particularly ahead of future elections. Analysts warn that prolonged internal conflict could damage the LP’s credibility and hamper its ability to function effectively as a political alternative.
For now, security remains tight at the national secretariat, with the party leadership vowing to protect its premises and preserve internal order.
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