NLC Slams Tinubu Govt Over Claims Civil Servants Can’t Engage in Politics

NLC Slams Tinubu Govt Over Claims Civil Servants Can’t Engage in Politics

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly criticized the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, over her claim that civil servants are barred from participating in partisan politics. According to the NLC, this statement is not only misleading but also contrary to the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria .

The NLC insists that civil servants have the constitutional right to engage in partisan politics, citing Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees every Nigerian’s right to assemble freely and associate with others. This includes forming or belonging to any political party or trade union

The NLC also referenced a landmark Supreme Court judgment in INEC and AGF vs Musa and Others, which ruled that public office holders and civil servants have the freedom to assemble and associate with others, form and belong to any political party, or trade union. This judgment reinforces the constitutional provision and makes it clear that civil servants are not excluded from these rights .

While civil servants have the right to engage in partisan politics, they are required to resign from service at least 30 days before contesting in elections. This provision is designed to prevent conflict of interest and ensure that public servants maintain their impartiality .

The NLC has called on all civil servants and workers in the private sector to actively engage in partisan politics as part of their civic responsibilities. According to NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, the Head of Service’s statement is a personal opinion that lacks legal foundation, and Nigerian workers should not be silenced .

In conclusion, the NLC’s stance on the matter is clear: civil servants have the constitutional right to participate in partisan politics, and any attempt to restrict this right is unlawful and contrary to legal precedent. As the matter continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the NLC’s position .