By John Dike, Osogbo
The Joint Labour Movement in Osun State has refuted allegations by the All Progressives Congress (APC) that it is planning a violent protest targeting the United Bank for Africa (UBA), describing the claims as false, malicious, and politically motivated.
The labour coalition, comprising the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), said the APC’s statement was an attempt to mislead security agencies, intimidate workers, and discredit lawful union activities.
In a statement on Sunday jointly signed by NLC Chairman Christopher Abimbola Arapasopo, TUC Chairman Bimbo Fasasi, and JNC Chairman Lekan Adediran respectively described the report as fake
The labour leaders insisted that their planned picketing of UBA branches remains peaceful and within the bounds of the law, stressing that no part of their resolutions suggested violence or criminal conduct.
“The claims of kidnapping, destruction, or any form of unlawful activity are entirely fabricated,” the statement said. “Our actions are guided by constitutional provisions and international labour standards.”
The unions explained that the decision to embark on the protest followed a meeting held on March 17, where members resolved to take lawful industrial action after exhausting all dialogue channels regarding alleged financial irregularities affecting workers’ welfare.
Labour also questioned why the APC appeared to be defending UBA in the dispute, noting that the bank itself had yet to publicly engage with the unions.
“It is troubling that a political party has assumed the role of spokesperson for a financial institution in a matter directly affecting workers,” the statement added, raising concerns about possible undisclosed interests.
The movement further accused the APC of attempting to create unnecessary tension in the state and undermine legitimate demands by workers through misinformation and propaganda.
While reaffirming its independence from political influence, the labour body cautioned security agencies, including the police and the Department of State Services (DSS), against acting on what it described as baseless allegations.
It urged the public to remain calm and not be swayed by what it called deliberate attempts to incite fear and confusion.
“Labour remains committed to peace, justice, and the protection of workers’ rights. We will not be intimidated or distracted,” the statement concluded.
