- 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.
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has requested that its national officials and affiliated unions accompany their president, Joe Ajaero, to the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) headquarters on Thursday.
The police had summoned Ajaero for interrogation regarding an ongoing investigation into suspected criminal activities, including conspiracy, financial support for terrorism, and sedition.
The NLC was initially asked to appear before the force’s intelligence unit on August 20, but Ajaero refused, requesting clarification on the specific allegations against him.
Through his legal representative, Samuel Ogala, Ajaero indicated his willingness to cooperate with the investigation, but requested a postponement until August 29.
In a circular, NLC General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja called on all affiliated unions, state chapters, and national officials to mobilize their members to demonstrate 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.”