Emmanuel Ugboaja: Labour Party reacts to death of NLC General Secretary
The Labour Party has expressed its condolences following the death of Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja, General Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), who passed away at the age of 60.
In a statement released by National Publicity Secretary Ken Eluma Asogwa, the Labour Party characterized Ugboaja as a dedicated unionist and democrat, emphasizing his significant support for the party’s current leadership. The party noted that his death creates a profound void within both the labour movement and the Labour Party.
The statement highlighted Ugboaja’s crucial role in fostering a strong relationship between the Labour Party and the organized labour movement, particularly the NLC. It recognized his active participation and valuable contributions to meetings that led to the development of the party’s new constitution.
Ugboaja’s historical involvement in the labour movement included being a member of the National Executive Council (NEC) that approved the formation of the Party for Social Democracy (PSD) in 2003, which later evolved into the Labour Party in 2004. He served as the Deputy National Secretary of the Labour Party and was also the National Secretary of the NLC Political Commission.
Beyond his contributions to labour issues, Ugboaja played a significant role in promoting Nigeria’s democracy. He participated in the National Constitutional Reform Conferences of 2005 and 2014, where his influence was noted in shaping their final reports. As a Director of the Alliance for Credible Elections from 2007 to 2010, he advocated for electoral reforms, contributing to the establishment of the Justice Uwais Electoral Reform Committee under then-President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
The Labour Party emphasized that Ugboaja’s life was dedicated to serving the labour movement, advancing democratic ideals, and contributing to the nation. His legacy and contributions are recognized as part of Nigeria’s collective history.
As the party mourns this profound loss, it extends its heartfelt condolences to the leadership and members of the Nigeria Labour Congress, the organized labour community, and Ugboaja’s family, friends, and associates. The Labour Party wishes for God to grant eternal rest to Ugboaja’s soul and to provide strength to his loved ones and the broader community during this difficult time.
