Date:August 28, 2024
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to hold a peaceful procession and prayers at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja, following the interrogation of its President, Comrade Joe Ajaero. The NLC’s leadership revealed that the procession, slated for later this week, aims to express solidarity and demand justice and fairness in the treatment of Ajaero by the police authorities.
Ajaero was summoned for questioning in connection with recent labor-related activities, sparking concerns within the union over what it describes as an attempt to intimidate and silence labor leaders. The NLC has insisted that Ajaero’s actions have been in line with the constitutionally guaranteed rights to freedom of assembly and expression, and it maintains that the union will not be deterred by what it perceives as undue harassment.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the NLC emphasized the peaceful nature of the planned event, calling on members and the general public to join in the procession and prayers for the country’s labor movement. The union also appealed for calm and urged the police to respect the rights of its members to peaceful protest.
The NLC further highlighted that the planned procession is not only a show of support for Ajaero but also a broader call for respect for workers’ rights and dialogue in addressing national labor issues. As tensions mount, the NLC reassured that the protest would be conducted in an orderly manner, with marshals appointed to ensure discipline and compliance with all relevant laws.
The Nigeria Police Force, in response, has acknowledged the NLC’s right to protest but urged the union to adhere to all legal requirements and cooperate with law enforcement to prevent any disruption of public order.
As the date for the procession approaches, all eyes will be on Abuja to see how the unfolding events will impact the ongoing relationship between the NLC and the government