President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, was seen leaving the Labour House in Abuja on Thursday morning, as he headed to the police station to honor an invitation by the Nigerian police.
This development comes against a backdrop of controversy, as allegations have been made linking Ajaero and the NLC to terrorism financing. Both Ajaero and the NLC have been categorically denied these allegations.
Joe Ajaero, was accompanied by human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN). Falana who is particularly known for his advocacy for human rights and his willingness to take on cases that involve defending the rights of citizens against perceived injustices by the state.
In addition to Falana, a group of workers likely made up of members of the Nigerian Labour Congress, also accompanied Ajaero as a show of solidarity with their leader.
The NLC have described the allegations as an attempt to tarnish the image of the labour movement and to distract from the pressing issues facing Nigerian workers. In recent weeks, the NLC has been vocal about various national issues, including the rising cost of living, fuel price hikes, and the need for improved wages and working conditions for workers.
A video circulating on social media shows Ajaero and his entourage walking out of the Labour House, surrounded by a crowd of workers and journalists.
The link to the video can be found here: Watch Video.
As the situation continues to unfold, there is a growing call from various quarters for the Nigerian government to handle the matter with care as many are concerned that the allegations could be part of a broader strategy to weaken the labour movement in Nigeria, especially at a time when the country is facing significant economic challenges and social unrest. The NLC has been a vocal critic of the government’s handling of the economy, and some see the current situation as an attempt to silence dissenting voices.
As Ajaero and his legal team prepare for the investigation, the Nigerians and the international community will be watching closely to see how it unfolds and its implications for Nigeria’s labour unions.
