The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 polls in Nigeria, Peter Obi has added his voice to those of labour leaders and activists that have expressed concern over the Nigeria Police’s invitation to the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Mr. Joe Ajaero, for questioning.
Ajaero, who leads the umbrella organization for workers in Nigeria, was invited for an interview regarding alleged infractions, details of which have not been made public.
The move has been interpreted by some as a attempt to intimidate or silence labour leaders, who have been vocal on various national issues, including workers’ rights and governance.
Writing on his X handle on Wednesday, said,
“The anxiety generated by Nigeria Police’s invitation to the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Mr Joe Ajero for an interview should not be unexpected given the critical position he holds as leader of the nation’s workforce.
“The NLC is an interlocutor of the Federal Government on various labour disputes and other national interest issues. On that basis alone, without prejudice to due process, Mr Ajaero represents an umbrella organization that should inform the authorities of their approach and modalities.
“The alleged infractions listed on the letter of invitation circulating on Social Media, are weighty and there is no clarity on the circumstances and if the authorities are attributing these to personal conduct or responsibilities devolving on Mr Ajaejo as the undisputed leader of NLC.
“Extreme caution must thus be exercised in the manner in which this issue is handled. It is not unexpected that government will boot try autocratic methods to vow labour as a potential opposition force.
“Invitations like the one to Ajaero are expected. But the rule of law and the laws of evidence should be observed.
“Labour should stick to its strengths and powers in order to maintain democratic order and sanity.”