NLC Threatens Nationwide Protest, Indefinite Strike Over Allegations Against President

The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning of an impending nationwide protest and indefinite strike, should the government continue with any actions that could harm, incriminate, or tarnish the reputation of the NLC and its President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, amid an ongoing investigation into alleged terrorism financing.

In an emergency meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday, the NEC expressed grave concerns over what it described as “unfounded and politically motivated” allegations against the NLC President. The NEC’s communique, signed by NLC Deputy President Comrade Ado Sani Minjibir, emphasized that any further attempts by the government to intimidate or harass the leadership of the Congress could result in drastic actions, including a nationwide strike.

“The Congress will not hesitate to take all necessary actions, including mass protests and industrial actions, to protect the integrity and independence of the labour movement,” the NEC stated. The NEC has directed all its affiliates and state councils to prepare for an indefinite nationwide strike, effective from midnight today, should the situation escalate.

The NEC, which comprises presidents and general secretaries of the NLC’s 54 affiliate unions, condemned the recent invitation extended to Comrade Ajaero by the Nigeria Police Force, labeling it as part of a politically driven investigation into baseless accusations of terrorism financing, cybercrime, subversion, criminal conspiracy, and treasonable felony.

The NEC’s communique further criticized the government’s approach, noting, “Rather than extending the apology demanded by the Congress for the earlier invasion of its national headquarters by security agencies, the Nigeria Police has chosen to embark on this spurious and opportunistic campaign of intimidation, harassment, and witch-hunting.”

The NEC’s resolution to honor the police invitation, albeit under protest, underscores the NLC’s commitment to the rule of law. However, the council made it clear that this compliance does not validate the allegations against its President. The NEC also called on the State to cease what it termed as malicious attempts to destabilize the labour movement, warning of the dire consequences of any further provocations.

In a rallying call to its members and civil society, the NLC urged solidarity in the face of these challenges, reaffirming its dedication to defending the rights and interests of workers and the broader Nigerian populace. The Congress vowed to remain steadfast in its pursuit of justice and the preservation of democratic values in the country.