In an emergency meeting held on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) deliberated intensely on the recent developments surrounding the invitation of the Congress President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, by the Nigeria Police Force.
The NEC has unequivocally condemned this invitation, described as being ‘politically motivated’. It said it was unfounded allegations of terrorism financing, cybercrime, subversion, criminal conspiracy, and treasonable felony.
Despite the gravity of the accusations, the NLC has chosen to honour the police invitation, demonstrating its commitment to the rule of law and due process.
However, the congress has requested an extension of time for this invitation, asserting that this does not, in any way, legitimize the baseless allegations leveled against Comrade Ajaero.
The NEC has voiced strong disapproval of the continued harassment of the NLC leadership and other labour leaders, viewing it as a calculated attempt to weaken and destabilize the labour movement.
Comrade Ado Sani Minjibir, Deputy President of the NLC, emphasized, “This is nothing but a travesty and a blatant attempt to stifle the voice of the working people and their leadership.”
In a bold move, the NEC has directed all affiliates and state councils to immediately commence the process of mobilizing their members across the nation. The congress has threatened to undertake all necessary actions, including mass protests and industrial actions, to protect the integrity and independence of the labour movement.
“If anything happens to the President of the Congress or any other leader of the Congress in furtherance of these tendentious allegations by the State, we will not hesitate to proceed on an indefinite nationwide strike action by 12:00 Midnight today,” Minjibir added.
The NEC has called on all civil society allies and the general populace to stand in solidarity with the NLC during 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,” asserted Comrade Minjibir.
Comrade Joe Ajaero stated, “We will not be silenced by these desperate attempts. Our resolve to uphold justice and the rule of law remains unshaken.” Comrade Ado Sani Minjibir also remarked, “This harassment is a direct assault on the democratic principles we hold dear. We stand united and resolute in our fight.”
