By JOAN NWAGWU

The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has recognised Shehu Mohammed as the legitimate President of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN).

This ‌‌‍‍‌‍⁠⁠‌⁠‍⁠‌‌⁠‌is contained in a statement signed and issued by Mr Nuhu Toro, Secretary-General of TUC, on Monday in Abuja.

Toro warned individuals and groups allegedly parading themselves as leaders of the union to desist from activities capable of undermining industrial peace.

He said the congress recognised Mohammed’s leadership following the union’s delegates conference held on Aug. 12, 2024, at Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.

He said the conference was observed by the Registrar of Trade Unions, Mr Amos Falonipe, alongside TUC President, Festus Osifo, and other officials.

“The leadership of ASCSN under Comrade Shehu Mohammed remains the only duly recognised and legitimate leadership of the union,” he said.

Toro expressed concern over the activities of unauthorised individuals allegedly presenting themselves as leaders or representatives of ASCSN.

He described their activities as a threat to the unity, discipline and institutional integrity of the labour movement.

According to him, such activities could undermine industrial peace and national stability if left unchecked.

He said the lower court judgment being relied upon by the rival group was currently under appeal by the Mohammed-led administration.

“Until the final determination of these matters by competent courts, these individuals lack any lawful authority to act, represent, or transact on behalf of ASCSN,” he said.

Toro urged Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), employers, development partners and the public to deal exclusively with the Mohammed-led leadership.

He also called on the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services and other security agencies to investigate alleged impersonation within the union.

The secretary-general also warned that individuals and institutions engaging with unauthorised groups risked becoming complicit in activities the congress considered unlawful.

“Parties who choose to interact with or accord recognition to such impostors do so entirely at their own risk,” he said.

Toro said the congress would deploy all lawful, institutional and industrial mechanisms to defend its affiliate and protect democratic trade union processes. (NAN)