The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has advised the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to reschedule their planned protest in Abuja on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, citing potential security risks.
The unions had announced a peaceful solidarity rally at the Federal Capital Development Authority to support affected workers. In a joint statement, NLC spokesperson Benson Upah and TUC Secretary General N.A. Toro instructed affiliates and state councils to mobilise members for full participation in the demonstration.
However, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, said intelligence reports suggested plans by the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria and other non-state actors to infiltrate the rally, potentially threatening public peace.
“While the Command recognises and respects the constitutional rights of citizens to peaceful assembly, intelligence reports indicate attempts by proscribed groups to hijack the protest for purposes inimical to public peace and security,” Adeh said.
She added that the request to reschedule is intended to protect residents, ensure freedom of movement, and allow lawful activities to continue unhindered.
The appeal comes amid ongoing labour unrest in the FCT, where administration workers have been on indefinite strike since January 19 over unpaid salaries, promotion arrears, and poor working conditions. The FCT authorities had approached the National Industrial Court to declare the strike illegal, but the court ordered workers to resume duties.
The NLC and TUC have accused the FCT authorities of intimidation and pledged to resist, underscoring tensions ahead of the planned rally.
