Ajaero speaks out against government intimidation, promising that attempts to silence their movement will fail amid ongoing tensions. Discover more about his stance.
In the face of mounting tensions between labor unions and the government, Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has reaffirmed his determination by saying that attempts to coerce or quiet organized labor will fail.
In reaction to recent moves by security services, such as the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force, which have increased their scrutiny of him, Ajaero issued this comment.
On Wednesday, September 25, the labor leader reaffirmed his resolve to accept a police invitation in spite of mounting pressure, demonstrating his unwavering support for the labor movement.
Ajaero recounted his recent arrest and confinement, which he regarded as a blatant attempt by the state to crush the labor movement, when speaking to employees and union officials in Lagos.
They expected to uncover misconduct, but we have maintained faith. He urged workers to be unwavering in the face of what he described as intimidation methods, saying, “We must all do the same.”
“We honored the state’s summons to respond to some allegations on August 29. We will honor another one on this month’s 25th, at the Abuja police headquarters.
“Let me say that the honesty with which we conduct ourselves, in addition to our resolve, is what gives our movement strength.
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“Our hands must be clean and our hearts pure so that our opponents will have nothing to use against us when they come as they may. You have personally witnessed it, comrades.
Therefore, while we get ready for the challenges that lie ahead, keep in mind that while our bodies may be imprisoned, our spirits are not.
They are able to obstruct every step we take, yet they are unable to break our bond. We need to be on guard, together, and prepared to meet whatever comes our way.
He thanked all of the international organizations—especially those that are members of the global trade union family—for their unflinching support of the labor movement during its most recent struggles on behalf of the NLC.
The Congress of South African Trade Unions, PSI, the International Labour Organization, the International Labour Organization, the International Trade Union Confederation, the Trade Union Congress, the Trade Union Congress of the UK, IndustriALL Global Union, the German Federation of Trade Unions, LO Norway, and all the patriotic Nigerians are especially appreciated.
“We are incredibly appreciative of your collective voices denouncing the government’s actions against the NLC and its leadership,” Ajaero stated.
