Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s candidate for president in the 2023 election, has finally spoken up about the police inviting Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
In his social media account, Obi shared his thoughts on the situation, expressing worries about how the police dealt with the invitation. He emphasized the importance of being careful and following the correct procedures.
Obi recognized the significant role that the NLC president plays as a leader representing the country’s workers and as a mediator between the Federal Government and labor-related issues. He acknowledged that the accusations in the invitation letter were serious but highlighted the importance of understanding whether they were linked to Ajaero’s personal actions or his role as the NLC leader.
The former Governor of Anambra State cautioned against using authoritarian tactics to intimidate labor as a potential opposing force.
He stressed the importance of following the rule of law and providing evidence. He advised labor to rely on its strengths and authority to uphold democracy and order sensibly.
He 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.”
The police asked Ajaero to come in for questioning regarding accusations of supporting terrorism, committing treasonable acts, engaging in cybercrime, and other similar crimes.
In response, Ajaero’s lawyer, Femi Falana, wrote back to the police stating that his client was not available at the moment but would attend the meeting on August 29, 2024.
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