The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has formally communicated with the police regarding the recent summons issued to its president, Joe Ajaero, explaining why he was unable to honor the invitation on the scheduled date. This development comes amid growing tensions between the NLC and the Nigeria Police, which have prompted the labor union to call on its members to prepare for a potential nationwide strike.
In response to the ongoing situation, the NLC has asked its members to be on standby for possible industrial action. The call to action was made in light of what the NLC perceives as an escalating face-off with the police. Amnesty International (AI) Nigeria has also weighed in, accusing the federal government of attempting to undermine and intimidate the NLC and its leadership with unfounded allegations of terrorism financing.
The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) has expressed concern over the rising attacks on trade unions in Nigeria. The organization has condemned the actions, stating that they represent an alarming trend of repression against the labor movement.
Joe Ajaero was scheduled to appear before a police investigation team to address allegations of terrorism financing and treasonable felony. However, the NLC, through its legal representatives, Femi Falana Chambers, requested a postponement of the interview date to August 29, citing short notice and pre-existing engagements. The request was made in a letter addressed to the Inspector General of Police, dated August 20, 2024.
The letter, signed by Samuel Ogala, a principal partner at Falana Chambers, outlined Ajaero’s inability to attend the initially scheduled meeting due to prior commitments. It emphasized that Ajaero would be prepared to meet with the police on the revised date.
In anticipation of any adverse outcomes from the investigation, the NLC convened an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting. The NEC issued a communique directing all state chapters and affiliates to mobilize workers for an indefinite strike should any actions be taken against Ajaero. The NLC described the investigation as politically motivated and baseless, aimed at discrediting and disrupting the labor movement.
The communique, signed by NLC Deputy President, Comrade Ado Minjibir, stated, “The congress will not hesitate to take all necessary actions, including mass protests and industrial actions, to protect the integrity and independence of the labor movement. If anything happens to the president of the congress or any other leader in furtherance of these tendentious allegations by the state, NEC puts all its affiliates and state councils on alert to proceed with an indefinite nationwide strike action by 12:00 midnight today.”
The NLC also called on civil society allies and the general public to stand in solidarity with the labor movement during this critical period.
