Joe Ajaero Addresses Public After Police Summons: A Stand for Nigerian Workers' Rights
By Wisdom Tide
29/08/2024
The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has spoken out after responding to an invitation from the Nigerian Police Force, specifically the Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT), where he was questioned on allegations of criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, treasonable felony, subversion, and cybercrime.
Ajaero’s visit to the IRT drew significant attention due to the gravity of the allegations against him. However, the seasoned labour leader has emphasized that such encounters are part of the challenges inherent in his position.
Upon his return to the Labour House in Abuja, Ajaero addressed the media, expressing deep appreciation for the unwavering support he received from affiliate unions, labour leaders, and the broader labour community. His gratitude was evident as he acknowledged the solidarity that was shown during his ordeal.
“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who stood by us during this period,” Ajaero said. “To all the comrades in various states who have been keeping vigil, fasting, and praying for our safe return, I say thank you. Your support has been a source of strength for us all.”
He continued with a touch of humor, noting that those who had been fasting in solidarity could now break their fast, as the situation had been resolved. This light-hearted remark was a testament to his resilient spirit, even in the face of serious accusations.
Ajaero reflected on the broader significance of the labour movement in Nigeria, describing it as one of the most patriotic and committed organizations in the country. “The labour movement is worth every sacrifice. It is one of the largest and most influential pan-Nigerian organizations, representing the interests of workers across all sectors. Our commitment to this cause has remained unwavering from the colonial era through the military regimes and into the present day.”
He added, “We have faced challenges before, and this is just another test of our resolve. The job we do comes with risks, and this is one of them. But we are undeterred. We have returned, and our focus remains on the struggle for better conditions for Nigerian workers.”
Ajaero reiterated the NLC’s commitment to pushing for the full implementation of the recently approved minimum wage, emphasizing that the fight for workers’ welfare is far from over. “We have secured a minimum wage, but our work is not done. We must ensure its implementation across the board. We will not be distracted by these events. Our priority is to continue advocating for the welfare of Nigerian workers in every possible way.”
In a moment of reflection, Ajaero expressed surprise and gratitude at the outpouring of support he received. “I didn’t realize just how much love and support we have within the labour movement and beyond,” he remarked. “This experience has been humbling, and it has strengthened our resolve to continue fighting for what is right.”
Accompanying Ajaero throughout this ordeal was his legal counsel, Maxwell Okpara, who also addressed the media to provide additional context. Okpara downplayed the significance of the police invitation, reassuring the public that there was no cause for alarm. He explained that the police had simply sought to question Ajaero about a tenant at the Labour House, an inquiry that Ajaero and his team had handled with the seriousness it deserved, but without undue concern.
“There was no reason for panic,” Okpara stated. “The police were conducting their inquiries, and we cooperated fully. This was a routine matter, and we treated it as such.”
However, Okpara used the opportunity to highlight broader concerns, particularly the ongoing detention of individuals arrested during the #EndBadGovernance protests. He called on the authorities to either release these detainees or proceed with their prosecution, stressing that their continued detention beyond legal limits was unacceptable.
“We must not lose sight of the fact that many Nigerians remain in detention without trial following the #EndBadGovernance protests. This is a grave injustice. We urge the authorities to either release these individuals or charge them in accordance with the law. Their prolonged detention is a violation of their rights, and it is something we cannot ignore,” Okpara asserted.
The events surrounding Ajaero’s police invitation have once again highlighted the precarious nature of activism and leadership within the labour movement in Nigeria. Despite the challenges, Ajaero’s resolve and the solidarity shown by the labour community underscore the enduring strength of the NLC and its commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers.
As Ajaero returns to his duties at the NLC, the focus remains on the ongoing struggles for better wages, improved working conditions, and the protection of workers' rights across Nigeria. The NLC, under Ajaero’s leadership, continues to play a critical role in shaping the socio-economic landscape of the country, ensuring that the voices of workers are heard and their interests protected.
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