Labour Movement Unites: NLC Mobilizes Support for Embattled President

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has mobilized its members across the country to show support for its President, Joe Ajaero, who is expected to appear before the Nigeria Police Force for questioning today. This move is seen as a show of unity and solidarity amid concerns over what the NLC perceives as an attempt to undermine its leadership.

According to a circular issued by the NLC’s General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja, President Ajaero is scheduled to honor the police invitation on Thursday, August 29, 2024. In response, the NLC has urged all affiliates, state councils, and allied unions to stand in solidarity with their president. The circular emphasizes the need for a collective and peaceful show of support to uphold the rights and integrity of the labor movement.

In Abuja, members of the Central Working Committee (CWC) and other union representatives have been directed to assemble at the NLC National Headquarters by 8:00 AM. From there, a convoy will escort President Ajaero to the police station, underscoring their collective commitment to their leader. This gathering is expected to include key figures from various unions, activists, and civil society organizations who share concerns about what they consider to be an unjustified summons by the police.

Simultaneously, in state capitals across Nigeria, the NLC has instructed its members to gather at their respective state Congress secretariats. From these locations, they will proceed in a peaceful march to their State Police Headquarters. The march will culminate in a prayer session aimed at invoking divine intervention for their president’s safety and fairness in the investigation process. These activities are designed not only to show support for Ajaero but also to send a clear message about the NLC’s resolve to defend its leadership against any perceived intimidation.

In Oyo State, the NLC took immediate action by organizing a protest march from their secretariat to the State Police Headquarters in Ibadan. During the procession, Oyo State NLC Chairman, Kayode Olusegun Martins, articulated the union’s grievances, condemning what he described as an intimidation tactic aimed at silencing the labor movement. He stressed that the invitation of President Ajaero by the police was seen as a direct attack on the independence of the NLC, warning that any action perceived as infringing on the rights of the union and its leadership would be strongly resisted.

Reacting to these concerns, Deputy Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Adejobi, addressed the protesters, clarifying the intent behind the police invitation. He stated that the purpose was neither to detain nor arrest Joe Ajaero but rather to seek clarification on specific matters relevant to an ongoing investigation. He described the protest as a “misguided response,” asserting that the police are simply following procedural protocols necessary to ensure transparency and accountability. Adejobi further assured the NLC members that their president would be treated with respect and that his rights would be fully protected throughout the process.

The unfolding situation highlights tensions between the NLC and the government, with labor leaders accusing the authorities of trying to undermine the labor movement’s credibility. The NLC’s call to action reflects a broader concern about preserving the integrity of its leadership and the right to operate without fear of undue interference.