NLC Summons Emergency Meeting Following Police Invitation of President Joe Ajaero
NLC Summons Emergency Meeting Following Police Invitation of President Joe Ajaero
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called an emergency meeting in response to the recent invitation of its President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, by the Nigeria Police Force. The invitation, which was reportedly issued late yesterday, has raised concerns within the NLC and among its affiliates, prompting swift action by the Congress to address the situation.
Comrade Joe Ajaero, who has been at the forefront of advocating for workers’ rights and leading nationwide protests against perceived anti-labor policies, received the police invitation in connection with statements he allegedly made during a recent public event. The invitation has sparked widespread speculation and concern within the labor community, with many viewing it as an attempt to intimidate the labor movement.
The NLC, which is the umbrella body for trade unions in Nigeria, has been vocal in its criticism of various government policies, particularly those related to fuel subsidy removal and the rising cost of living. Under Ajaero’s leadership, the Congress has organized several strikes and protests to demand better conditions for Nigerian workers.
In light of the police invitation, the NLC has summoned an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting to discuss the implications of the development and to chart a course of action. The meeting, scheduled to take place at the NLC headquarters in Abuja, is expected to be attended by key labor leaders from across the country.
In a statement released this morning, NLC General Secretary, Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja, emphasized the Congress’s commitment to protecting its leadership and members from any form of harassment or intimidation. “The NLC views the invitation of our President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, by the Nigeria Police Force with grave concern. We believe this is an attempt to undermine the labor movement and silence the voices of Nigerian workers who are legitimately demanding their rights. The Congress will not stand idly by while our leadership is subjected to undue pressure. We have called an emergency NEC meeting to deliberate on this matter and take necessary actions to protect our members and ensure that the rights of Nigerian workers are upheld.”
Comrade Ugboaja further reiterated the NLC’s readiness to defend its position on issues affecting Nigerian workers and called on the government to respect the rights of the labor movement. “We will continue to advocate for the welfare of Nigerian workers and resist any attempt to stifle our efforts. We urge the government to respect the rule of law and the fundamental rights of all Nigerians, including the right to peaceful protest and freedom of speech.”
The news of Ajaero’s invitation by the police has drawn swift reactions from labor leaders and civil society organizations across the country. Many have expressed their solidarity with the NLC and its leadership, warning that any attempt to intimidate or harass labor leaders could lead to widespread unrest.
Comrade Ayuba Wabba, immediate past President of the NLC and current President of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), condemned the police’s action, describing it as an affront to the labor movement. “The invitation of Comrade Joe Ajaero by the police is deeply troubling and unacceptable. It is a clear attempt to weaken the labor movement and create fear among our ranks. We stand firmly with Comrade Ajaero and the NLC in this trying time. The government must understand that any action taken against the labor leadership is an action taken against the entire workforce of Nigeria.”
Similarly, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, a prominent human rights lawyer and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), called on the government to respect the independence of the labor movement and to ensure that the police operate within the bounds of the law. “The labor movement plays a crucial role in our democracy, and any attempt to undermine it is an attack on the democratic process itself. The police must ensure that their actions are in line with the law and not seen as an attempt to stifle dissent.”
The emergency NEC meeting of the NLC is expected to address several critical issues, including the legal and political implications of the police invitation, the potential impact on ongoing labor activities, and the next steps the Congress will take in response. There are concerns that the invitation could escalate tensions between the labor movement and the government, potentially leading to nationwide protests or strikes.
Labor experts suggest that the NLC may consider legal action to challenge the invitation or seek assurances from the government that such incidents will not recur. Additionally, the Congress may decide to intensify its advocacy efforts and mobilize workers across the country to resist any form of intimidation.
As of now, the Nigeria Police Force has not issued an official statement regarding the invitation of Comrade Joe Ajaero. However, sources within the government suggest that the invitation was issued as part of routine inquiries related to public statements made by prominent figures. The government is expected to closely monitor the outcome of the NLC’s emergency meeting and the subsequent actions taken by the Congress.
The Nigeria Labour Congress remains resolute in its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers. The emergency meeting called in response to the police invitation of Comrade Joe Ajaero underscores the seriousness with which the Congress views this development. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on the NLC and its leadership as they navigate this critical moment in the history of Nigeria’s labor movement.
