NLC asks national officers, affiliates to accompany Ajaero to police HQ on Thursday

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has asked all national officers and affiliate unions to accompany Joe Ajaero, its president, to the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) headquarters on Thursday.

The police had invited Ajaero for questioning over a case of alleged criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, treasonable felony, subversion, and cybercrime.

The NLC was asked to appear before the force intelligence response team (IRT) on August 20.

But Ajaero declined the invitation, demanding details of the allegations levelled against him.

In a letter through Samuel Ogala, principal partner at the Falana & Falana’s Chambers, Ajaero said he would be available for questioning on Wednesday, August 29.

In a circular, Emmanuel Ugboaja, NLC general secretary, asked all affiliate unions, state councils, and national officers to mobilise their members to show solidarity 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.”