The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) South-South Forum comprising the TUC State Councils in the South-South Geopolitical Zone of Nigeria condemn in totality the completely unwarranted and unjustifiable attack on our Protem Secretary and State Chairman of  TUC Akwa-Ibom State Comrade Ifreke Akpan by gunmen at Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State on Tuesday November 9th 2010 shortly after the workers solidarity rally in preparation for the 3-day national warning strike on Minimum wage.

We are deeply worried about the resurgence of armed and violent attacks on labour leaders in a democratic Nigeria as well as the unacceptable level of insecurity in Nigeria. We note that democracy without security is anarchy and serves no useful purpose to the citizens. Accordingly we call on President Goodluck Jonathan, Akwa-Ibom State Governor Obong Godswill Akpabio and the  Inspector General of Police Mr.Hafis Ringim to investigate the armed attack on Comrade Ifreke Akpan and ensure that the culprits are brought to book without any further delay.

We also ask all comrades and friends of labour to pray for the quick recovery of Comrade Ifreke Akpan and for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria where rule of law, respect for our neighbours, social justice and harmony will be the reality of everyday life.

Solidarity Forever,

For:     Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) South-South Forum

Comrade Hyginus Chika Onuegbu JP, FCA

Protem Chairman