Labour movement worth dying for — Ajaero

The president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has reaffirmed the union’s unwavering patriotism in the face of recent challenges, adding that the labour movement is worth dying for.

Speaking to a crowd of NLC members at the union’s headquarters on Thursday, Ajaero said that the labour movement is one of the most patriotic organisations in Nigeria.

Ajaero, who had recently honoured a police invitation related to allegations of terrorism financing and other offences, described the experience as a “hazard” of being a labour leader.

He characterised the police summons as one of the risks inherent in his role, recalling previous instances of detention under former head of state General Sani Abacha in the 1990s.

In his address, Ajaero reaffirmed the labour movement’s steadfast commitment to Nigeria, despite the current challenges.

“The labour movement is worth dying for because of its patriotism and commitment. From the days of colonial rule to the military era, our patriotism has been unshakeable,” he declared.

“We are more patriotic than any other institution in this country, and we will continue to be.”

Ajaero’s appearance before the police was in response to allegations involving terrorism financing, cybercrime, subversion, criminal conspiracy, and treasonable felony.

“Despite the distractions, our focus remains on advocating for better welfare for Nigerian workers,” Ajaero said.

“We will not be deterred by any challenges or attempts to undermine our efforts.”

He expressed gratitude to the NLC members who showed solidarity and support during the period, noting that his return to the NLC headquarters marks a continuation of the struggle for workers’ rights.

Ajaero departed from the police Intelligence Response Team headquarters around 11:15 am after providing his statement.

His police invitation has sparked significant controversy, with accusations of harassment from the NLC and support from Amnesty International Nigeria, which condemned the allegations as an attempt to intimidate the labour leader.

The NLC’s National Executive Council has labelled the allegations as politically motivated, aiming to silence the labour movement.