TUC kicks as FG plans to impose tenure policy on trade unions

The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has faulted moves by the Office of Head of Service of the Federation to unilaterally introduce a tenure policy for trade union officers.

A circular from the Head of Service of the Federation with Reference No. HCSF/PS/SPSO/268/13/2/38 and dated August 1, 2023, has mandated that trade unions introduce a tenure limit of no more than two terms, with each term restricted to two years.

The Guardian gathered that this makes the maximum tenure for any trade union officer four years throughout his service life.

A statement by TUC President Festus Osifo, said the newly introduced Public Service Rule (PSR) 020612 directly contradicts the existing provisions of the Labour Act and many trade union constitutions, which typically provide for a four-year tenure per term.

While calling for a reverse of the policy, he said the imposition of a two-year term was disruptive and undermined the autonomy of trade unions to manage their internal affairs as guaranteed by their constitutions.

“In our opinion, this policy represents a significant overreach by the government, infringing on the rights of trade unions to self-governance and autonomy.

“It is important to reiterate that trade unions are constitutionally empowered to determine the tenure of their officers as enshrined in their constitutions, and any attempt to impose external limits is a direct violation of these rights,” he said.

According to him, the imposition of a tenure limit by the PSR is an encroachment on the independence of trade unions and undermines the democratic processes within these unions, where members have the right to freely elect leaders based on the constitutions that govern their operations.

The congress called on the Head of Service of the Federation to urgently review and rescind PSR Rule 020612 and the accompanying circular.

According to TUC, trade unions must be allowed to operate according to their constitutions, without undue interference from external bodies.

“The autonomy and independence of trade unions are fundamental to the protection of workers’ rights and the promotion of a fair and just workplace.

“We also urge all affiliates of Congress to stand united in defense of their constitutional rights. Together, we must resist any attempt to undermine the democratic processes within our organisations and ensure that our voices continue to be heard in the corridors of power,” it said.