The NLC urges the police to focus on bandits rather than peaceful protesters. Learn more about their statement and the context behind it.
President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has called on President Bola Tinubu to take action and meet the demands of those protesting.
Ajaero stressed that in order for a sustainable solution to be found, it is imperative that government officials engage with protest leaders and negotiate sincerely instead of relying on threats from law enforcement agencies such as police or military forces.
In light of the violence against protesters, Ajaero criticized Kayode Egbetokun’s leadership and questioned the professionalism of the police. He called for greater accountability and urged them to shift their focus towards combating bandits causing chaos nationwide instead of targeting peaceful demonstrators.
Ajaero stated that the professionalism of our security personnel is called into question as reports and video clips indicate a massacre with over 40 casualties in just two days of handling EndHunger protests nationwide.
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Drawing attention to the unequal police response in various states, he pointed out that Commissioner of Police Audu Ali Dabigi’s ruthless behavior resulted in the death of a protester during demonstrations in Kaduna.
In comparison, Edo State Commissioner of Police Funsho Adegboroye demonstrated commendable restraint and efficacious crowd management strategies.
In Asokoro, Abuja, Ajaero expressed his disapproval of the police’s aggressive behavior under Compol Bennett Igweh towards protesters who were treated with tear gas despite their peaceful demeanor.
He pointed out that such violent acts by law enforcement officials only provoke further brutality and raised doubts about the quality of their training and expertise.
Accountability was demanded by the NLC president for those officers who were involved in any acts of violence and he insisted on proper disciplinary measures to be taken against them as well as their commanders.
Additionally, compensation must be given to victims’ families while injured individuals should receive adequate treatment and rehabilitation services according to him.
Ajaero commended the Nigeria Bar Association for being vigilant and urged the prompt release of all protesters who have been detained.
He emphasized that it is unacceptable for police to use live ammunition during protests, and expressed optimism about advancements in crowd control strategies as a means of preventing future incidents.
Ajaero emphasized that the resolution lies firmly in the hands of the government and urged them to bargain genuinely with protest leaders.
He cautioned that if law enforcement persisted in their abusive conduct, there may be a need for organized labor to intervene on behalf of regular citizens.
Ajaero stated that genuine demands warrant compromises from the government, and caution against officials or security forces using sophistry or threats as it can be counterproductive. Ultimately, we are all Nigerians. Time is of the essence in such matters.
