February 2, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel | News
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has appealed to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), FCT Council, to suspend its planned protest scheduled for Tuesday, February 3, 2026, citing serious security concerns.
In a statement released on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the police disclosed that intelligence reports suggest that the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) and other non-state actors may be planning to infiltrate and hijack the demonstration, potentially leading to violence and a breakdown of law and order in Abuja.
While reaffirming citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful assembly, the police stressed that the identified security threats outweigh the benefits of holding the protest at this time.
“The Command recognizes and respects the rights of citizens to peaceful protest; however, intelligence available to us indicates plans by proscribed groups and other actors to exploit the protest for purposes inimical to public peace and security,” the statement read.
The police described their appeal as a preventive step aimed at safeguarding lives, property, and public infrastructure. They also warned that if the protest escalates into unrest, it could significantly disrupt the movement and daily activities of residents within the Federal Capital Territory.
Meanwhile, tensions remain high as the industrial dispute between the FCT Administration and its workers deepens. Both the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) and the NLC have threatened a solidarity rally in support of members of the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC).
The rally is expected to take place at the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) premises in Abuja, with full participation from all NLC and TUC affiliates and state councils within the FCT.
In a joint statement, Acting General Secretary of the NLC, Comrade Benson Upah, and Secretary General of the TUC, Comrade General N.A. Toro, said the rally is meant to demonstrate unwavering solidarity with aggrieved workers.
“An injury to one is an injury to all. The Nigerian labour movement will not abandon its own,” the statement declared.
The labour leaders urged JUAC members to remain resolute and courageous, describing the struggle as one anchored on justice, fairness, and respect for labour rights.
Both labour centres reaffirmed their support for striking FCT workers protesting the alleged non-remittance of National Housing Fund (NHF) and pension deductions, as stipulated under the Pension Reform Act 2014 (as amended).
“History has taught us that rights are never gifted—they are won through collective resistance and principled struggle,” the statement added.
The NLC and TUC have directed all affiliates to mobilize effectively and ensure the rally remains lawful and peaceful, noting that details of convergence points and timing will be communicated through respective unions.
