NLC President, Ajaero vows to fight on, says ‘our patriotism is unshakable’
Joseph Irikefe
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, has said that the labour movement remains the most patriotic organisation in Nigeria.
Ajaero, who said this on Thursday after honouring the Nigerian police invitation on alleged “criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, treasonable felony, subversion, and cybercrime,” pledged that the union would uphold its commitment to patriotism despite any challenges.
Ajaero, while addressing a crowd of labour members at the NLC headquarters, said: “The labour movement is worth fighting for due to its deep patriotism and dedication.”
He said, “From the colonial era through the military regime, our commitment has remained steadfast.
“We are more patriotic than any other institution in this country, and we intend to maintain that stance.
“We have faced the inquiries and returned; I want to assure you that as a citizen, we have addressed the issues and are back here.”
Ajaero was summoned by the police to respond to allegations related to terrorism financing, cybercrime, subversion, criminal conspiracy, and treasonable felony.
The labour leader described the police summons as a common challenge for labour leaders, recalling his own past experiences under General Sani Abacha’s regime in the 1990s.
Ajaero emphasised that his return was crucial for continuing the fight for better conditions for Nigerian workers, saying, “We will not be deterred by any distractions.”
He expressed gratitude to the NLC members at the headquarters and across the nation for their solidarity.
Ajaero left the police Intelligence Response Team headquarters around 11:15am after providing his statement.
The police invitation, which sparked significant controversy, led to accusations of harassment from the NLC.
In response, the NLC National Executive Council held an emergency meeting and condemned the allegations as baseless and politically motivated attempts to silence the labor movement.
Amnesty International Nigeria also criticized the police action, suggesting that the allegations against Ajaero were an attempt to intimidate union leaders.