…threatens midnight strike action, if

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning that it will embark on a nationwide strike starting at midnight if any harm comes to its President, Comrade Joe Ajaero. This follows Ajaero’s summons by the police on Monday over accusations related to terrorism financing, cybercrime, subversion, criminal conspiracy, and treasonable felony.

During an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on Tuesday, the NLC denounced the police’s invitation as politically motivated and advised the federal government (FG) to refrain from witch-hunting labour leaders. The Congress emphasized that such actions are detrimental not only to the labour movement but also to the stability and democratic principles of the nation.

The NLC’s communique issued after the NEC meeting demanded an extension of time to respond to the police summons, criticizing the timing and manner in which it was delivered. The NLC made it clear that complying with the summons and requesting an extension should not be interpreted as validating the serious allegations against Ajaero.

The communique states: “The NEC notes with grave concern that instead of addressing the Congress’s earlier request for an investigation into the invasion of its national headquarters by security agencies, the Nigeria Police has chosen this spurious and provocative path of intimidation, harassment, and witch-hunting.”

“This is not just an attack on the NLC, but a blatant attempt to silence the working people and their leadership, which are protected under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions 87 and 98.”

In light of the situation, the NEC of the NLC advises as follows:

• The NLC, committed to the rule of law and due process, will comply with the police invitation extended to its President. However, it demands an extension of time due to the circumstances surrounding the summons. This compliance does not, however, legitimize the unfounded allegations made against him.
• The NEC strongly condemns the ongoing harassment of NLC leadership and other labour leaders. It views this as a deliberate strategy to undermine and destabilize the labour movement, which has consistently defended democratic values and represented the voice of the Nigerian people.
• The NEC advises the federal government to cease its actions against labour leaders immediately. Such actions are counterproductive, likely to exacerbate tensions, and could lead to widespread unrest if not addressed promptly.
• The NEC has directed all affiliates and state councils to begin mobilizing their members nationwide. The NLC will not hesitate to take decisive action, including mass protests and industrial strikes, to safeguard the integrity and independence of the labour movement. Should anything happen to the NLC President or any other leader due to these allegations, an indefinite nationwide strike will commence at 12:00 Midnight today.
• The NEC calls on civil society organizations and the general public to stand in solidarity with the NLC during this critical time. The fight against injustice and oppression is a collective one, and the support of all Nigerians is crucial to defending our shared democratic values.
• The NLC remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the rights and interests of workers and the Nigerian people. The Congress will not be intimidated by these attempts to silence it and will continue to advocate for justice, fairness, and the rule of law in Nigeria.

By taking this stance, the NLC not only underscores its dedication to the welfare of Nigerian workers but also sends a clear message to the federal government: respect for the rule of law and the rights of all citizens is non-negotiable. The FG is advised to consider the potential consequences of its actions carefully, as the stability of the nation and the preservation of democratic principles are at Stake.