The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has issued a warning to Ministries, Departments and Agencies of the Federal Government, employers, and other stakeholders against dealing with individuals or groups claiming to be representatives of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) but are not authorised by the union. The TUC stated that only the leadership of ASCSN under Comrade Shehu Mohammed is recognised.
The warning was contained in a public circular signed by the TUC Secretary-General, Comrade Nuhu Toro. The circular stated that the TUC's position was based on ASCSN's status as a bona fide affiliate of the Congress and the outcome of the union's delegates conference held in Lagos on August 12, 2024. The conference was observed by the Registrar of Trade Unions in the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Amos Falonipe, as well as the TUC President-General, Festus Osifo, and the Secretary-General.
The TUC expressed concern over the activities of individuals and groups allegedly parading themselves as leaders or representatives of ASCSN, describing these activities as illegal and capable of undermining the unity and institutional integrity of the labour movement. The Congress noted that it had observed these activities and was taking steps to address them.
The TUC advised MDAs, employers, development partners, and the general public to deal strictly with the Shehu Mohammed-led leadership on all matters relating to ASCSN. It also alerted security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services, to what it described as acts of illegality and impersonation, urging investigation and appropriate action.
The labour centre stated that any individual or group outside the recognised leadership of Comrade Shehu Mohammed-led ASCSN lacks the mandate and legitimacy to act on behalf of the union. It warned that any engagement, negotiation, or transaction conducted with such unauthorised persons or groups is null, void, and of no consequence.
The TUC warned that individuals and institutions that chose to engage with or recognise the alleged unauthorised representatives would do so at their own risk. It added that it would deploy "all lawful, institutional, and industrial mechanisms" to defend its affiliate and protect what it described as the sanctity of democratic trade union processes.
The Congress's move is aimed at maintaining the unity and integrity of the labour movement in Nigeria. The TUC's efforts to protect its affiliate and ensure that only authorised representatives are recognised are ongoing. The warning is also seen as a measure to prevent potential conflicts and ensure stability within the labour movement.
Key points
- The TUC has warned against dealing with unauthorised representatives of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN).
- The recognised leadership of ASCSN is under Comrade Shehu Mohammed.
- The TUC will deploy all lawful mechanisms to defend its affiliate and protect democratic trade union processes.
