Chukwu Obinna 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Police in Nigeria’s capital are urging labour unions to postpone a planned solidarity protest, citing intelligence that extremist groups intend to infiltrate the demonstration and provoke violence.
The Federal Capital Territory Police Command says reports indicate that the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria, alongside other non-state actors, plans to exploit Tuesday’s rally for actions that could threaten public safety.
In a statement on Monday, police spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh acknowledges workers’ constitutional right to peaceful protest but appeals to organisers to reschedule the march in the interest of security.
“While the Command recognises and respects the constitutional rights of citizens to peaceful assembly, intelligence reports indicate plans to hijack the protest for purposes inimical to public peace and security,” Adeh says.
The warning follows a joint directive by the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress mobilising members for a solidarity march at the Federal Capital Development Authority headquarters.
“The rally is to publicly affirm that an injury to one is an injury to all,” labour leaders say, insisting the protest is lawful and peaceful.
Police, however, stress that the appeal is not an attempt to suppress workers’ rights.
“This measure is aimed at forestalling any breakdown of law and order,” Adeh adds, noting the need to protect residents’ freedom of movement and daily activities.
The protest supports FCT Administration workers on strike since January 19 over unpaid salaries, promotion arrears and poor working conditions.
At the time of filing, labour unions have yet to respond publicly to the police request, leaving uncertainty over whether the rally will proceed.
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