The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning, threatening to mobilize its members and the broader Nigerian populace for mass protests and an indefinite nationwide strike if its President, Joe Ajaero, is mistreated by the police.
This warning follows the police’s invitation to Ajaero for questioning in connection with allegations of terrorism financing, cybercrime, subversion, criminal conspiracy, and treasonable felony.
In a statement released on Tuesday following an emergency meeting of its leadership, the NLC expressed deep concern over the allegations, describing them as baseless.
The police had requested Ajaero to report to their office on Tuesday morning as part of an ongoing investigation.
Despite its reservations, the NLC confirmed that Ajaero would comply with the invitation, although it has requested an extension of the time given the gravity of the allegations.
The NLC’s statement reads: “As a responsible labour centre committed to the rule of law and due process, the NLC shall honour the invitation extended to its President by the Nigeria Police but will demand for an extension of time given the nature of the invitation. However, we wish to state unequivocally that this does not in any way legitimise the baseless allegations levelled against him.”
In a show of solidarity, the NLC’s National Executive Council (NEC) has directed all its affiliates and state councils to begin immediate mobilization of their members across the country.
The Congress warned that it would not hesitate to initiate mass protests and industrial actions to protect the integrity and independence of the labour movement if any harm befalls Ajaero or any other labour leader as a result of the police’s actions.
“NEC puts all its affiliates and state councils to proceed on indefinite nationwide strike action by 12:00 Midnight today,” the statement continued.
“The NEC calls on all civil society allies and the general populace to stand in solidarity with the Nigeria Labour Congress in this critical moment. The fight against injustice and oppression is a collective one, and we urge all Nigerians to rise in defense of our shared democratic values.”
