The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has mobilized its members, particularly the Central Working Committee (CWC), to converge at the Police headquarters in Abuja as Comrade Joe Ajaero responds to a summons over allegations of terrorism financing and other charges.
The police had earlier summoned the NLC President on Monday, August 19, to appear at the Force headquarters on Tuesday, August 20, at 10 a.m. to address accusations including terrorism financing, cybercrime, subversion, criminal conspiracy, and treasonable felony.
This development prompted an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, during which the Congress denounced the allegations as baseless and politically motivated, aimed at silencing the labor force.
A circular addressed to all NLC affiliates and State Councils, signed by the General Secretary, Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja, called for mobilization for a peaceful procession and prayer session in solidarity with the Congress President, Comrade Ajaero. The circular emphasized unity and resilience, stating that together they would overcome the challenges and continue to uphold justice, fairness, and democracy in the country.
The circular read: “In response to the recent summons by the Nigeria Police Force for our President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, to appear for interrogation on trumped-up charges on Thursday, August 29, 2024, we call on all NLC affiliates and state councils to mobilize their members in Abuja and across the states to show solidarity.
“Details for Participation: 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.
“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.”
