How Proscription of Trade Unions Was Fought Under Military and Civilian Regimes in Nigeria – Femi Falana Reveals
Renowned human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana (SAN), has shed light on the long and intense struggle against the proscription of trade unions in Nigeria under both military and civilian governments.
Speaking at a recent public lecture organized by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Falana recounted how successive regimes attempted to silence organized labour through repressive decrees and undemocratic bans. However, he praised the resilience and solidarity of Nigerian workers who continuously fought for their constitutional right to association and collective bargaining.
According to Falana, during the military era, decrees were used to dissolve union structures, seize assets, and intimidate labour leaders. Yet, the courage of activists and unionists ensured that the voice of the working class was never completely suppressed. He highlighted the sacrifices made by key figures who risked imprisonment and persecution in defense of workers’ rights.
Falana noted that even under civilian administrations, efforts to weaken the labour movement have persisted through policies that threaten workers’ welfare and union autonomy. He called on labour leaders to remain vigilant and united, stressing that the struggle for industrial democracy is far from over.
“The proscription of trade unions is a violation of the Nigerian Constitution and international labour conventions to which Nigeria is a signatory,” Falana stated. “Workers must continue to defend their right to organize and resist any form of intimidation from the state.”
The legal icon further urged the government to engage in dialogue with organized labour rather than resorting to repression, warning that suppressing workers’ voices could deepen social and economic unrest.
Falana’s remarks have since sparked widespread discussion within the labour community, reinforcing the importance of trade unionism as a pillar of democracy and social justice in Nigeria.
