The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has urged its top officials and affiliated unions to accompany Joe Ajaero, the union’s president, to the Nigeria Police Force headquarters on Thursday.
News About Nigeria reported that Ajaero was summoned by the police for questioning regarding a range of serious allegations, including conspiracy, terrorism financing, and sedition.
Initially, the NLC was asked to present itself before the police intelligence unit on August 20, but Ajaero declined, requesting specific details about the allegations against him.
Through his lawyer, Samuel Ogala, Ajaero expressed his willingness to cooperate with the investigation but requested a new date of August 29.
In response, NLC General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja issued a call to action, urging all affiliated unions, state chapters, and national officials to mobilise their members in a show of support for Ajaero on Thursday.
“In Abuja: All CWC members resident in Abuja and other members are expected to assemble at the National Headquarters of the Nigeria Labour Congress by 8:00 AM on Thursday, August 29, 2024, to accompany the President to the Police for the scheduled interaction,” the circular reads.
“In State Capitals: Members should gather at their respective state secretariats of Congress. From there, they will embark on a peaceful procession to their State Police Headquarters, where they will hold a prayer session until the President’s interaction with the Police is concluded.
“This peaceful march is a united stand against the unjust actions aimed at intimidating our leadership and stifling the voice of Nigerian workers. We urge all members to remain peaceful and orderly throughout the procession and prayer session. If for any reason, the President is detained, all workers nationwide shall proceed on indefinite strike.
“Your unwavering support and solidarity at this critical time are crucial to defending Civic rights and the integrity and rights of the labour movement.
“Together, we shall overcome these challenges and continue to uphold justice, fairness, and democracy in our dear nation.”
