The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to reconsider the timing of its planned solidarity protest in Abuja, citing security concerns.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, disclosed that intelligence reports suggest the likelihood of infiltration by members of the Shiite Islamic group and other unidentified non-state actors, who may exploit the protest to trigger unrest.
According to the Police, the appeal is not intended to suppress lawful dissent but to prevent a possible breakdown of law and order. The Command emphasized that rescheduling the protest would help safeguard public safety and protect the rights of residents to free movement and normal daily activities within the capital.
“The FCT Police Command is aware of a peaceful protest scheduled to take place on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, by the NLC FCT Council,” the statement read. “While we respect the constitutional rights of citizens to peaceful assembly, intelligence available to us indicates plans by the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria and other non-state actors to infiltrate and hijack the protest for purposes that threaten public peace and security.”
The Police added that delaying the protest would reduce the risk of violence and ensure a secure environment for all residents of the Federal Capital Territory.
“The appeal to reschedule the protest is made in the overriding interest of public safety and to prevent any infringement on the rights of other residents to safety and freedom of movement,” the statement further noted.
The Command reassured the public of its commitment to protecting lives and property and called on residents to continue cooperating with security agencies to maintain peace across the FCT.
Meanwhile, the planned protest was announced jointly by the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) as a solidarity rally in support of workers of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA). The rally is intended to back the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC), which is currently leading an indefinite strike over the non-payment of workers’ salaries.
Also Read: NLC, TUC Plan February 3 Solidarity Rally for Striking FCDA Workers
The decision to hold the protest was made public in a joint statement signed by the NLC General Secretary, Benson Upah, and the TUC Secretary General, Nuhu Toro.