The candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has stated that the invitation of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) boss, Joe Ajaero, by the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) is not unexpected, News About Nigeria reports.
He stated this in a statement via his verified handle on X on Thursday.
The former Anambra State governor noted that the anxiety over the police’s invitation is justified given the critical position he holds as leader of the nation’s workforce, adding that Ajaero represents an umbrella organisation that should inform the authorities of their approach and modalities.
He, however, stated that the allegations against the Labour boss are weighty, and thus, extreme caution must be exercised in the way they are handled.
He wrote, “The anxiety generated by Nigeria Police’s invitation to the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Mr Joe Ajaero for an interview should not be unexpected given the critical position he holds as leader of the nation’s workforce.
“The NLC is an interlocutor of the Federal Government on various labour disputes and other national interest issues. On that basis alone, without prejudice to due process, Mr Ajaero represents an umbrella organization that should inform the authorities of their approach and modalities.
“The alleged infractions listed on the letter of invitation circulating on Social Media, are weighty and there is no clarity on the circumstances and if the authorities are attributing these to personal conduct or responsibilities devolving on Mr Ajaero as the undisputed leader of NLC.
“Extreme caution must thus be exercised in the manner in which this issue is handled. It is not unexpected that government will boot try autocratic methods to vow labour as a potential opposition force.
“Invitations like the one to Ajaero are expected. But the rule of law and the laws of evidence should be observed. Labour should stick to its strengths and powers in order to maintain democratic order and sanity.”
