The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the alleged raid of its headquarters in Abuja by security operatives, calling it a severe infringement on democratic rights and freedoms.

The NLC alleged that the invasion was carried out by mixed personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and unidentified operatives dressed in plain clothes.

The congress said the raid occurred hours after the NLC’s National Executive Council meeting denounced the heavy-handed tactics used by security forces against protesters and the use of treason to describe peaceful demonstrationsm, noting that the action has further fuelled fears of state-sponsored repression.

NLC added that the raid marked a new low in security operations in Nigeria and a dangerous precedent for the nation’s democracy.

The congress therefore called for an international investigation into the invasion, citing concerns over the safety of their staff and the potential tampering with evidence, while instructing their employees to stay away from the Labour House until a thorough inspection confirms that no incriminating materials or harmful substances have been planted by the intruding forces.