…partner to promote rule of law, citizens rights
MARGARET CHIDERA
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) have both condemned the criminalization of civil protests, stating that sustainable progress in Nigeria requires strict adherence to the Rule of Law at all levels of governance.
This is as NLC and NBA have concluded plans to partner to promote the rule of law as well as citizens’ rights.
The understanding was reached on Thursday when the NLC, led by its President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, paid a courtesy visit to the headquarters of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Abuja.
The meeting provided an opportunity for both organizations to exchange views and experiences on the importance of entrenching the Rule of Law and safeguarding the fundamental rights of Nigerian citizens.
Both organizations discussed how the legal and labour sectors could collaborate to entrench democratic values, protect citizens’ rights, and hold governance accountable.
Comrade Joe Ajaero reaffirmed the NLC’s commitment to working alongside the NBA in promoting the rights of workers and all Nigerians.
He emphasized the importance of a strong legal presence that protects citizens from abuse, ensures the freedom of association, and upholds democratic norms.
The NLC President also commended the NBA’s role in defending the integrity of the legal system.
Furthermore, he expressed optimism that this partnership would lead to significant political and socio-economic progress.
In his remarks, NBA President Afam Osigwe, highlighted the NBA’s determination to uphold the rule of law and strengthen Nigeria’s legal institutions.
He assured the NLC of the NBA’s readiness to partner with the Nigeria Labour Congress in advocating for policies that respect citizens’ rights and promote social justice.
Osigwe emphasized the reactivation of the Pro-Bono Department of the NBA to ensure that citizens who are indigent and persecuted can be offered free legal representation at all times.
