Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has firmly stated that the union will not be intimidated by external pressures following his appearance at the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.
Ajaero, who was invited by the police to address serious allegations including terrorism financing, cybercrime, subversion, criminal conspiracy, and treasonable felony, arrived at the IRT office at 10:17 a.m. and left just after 11:15 a.m.
He was accompanied by prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), activist Deji Adeyanju, and senior NLC officials.
Speaking to journalists at the Labour House after his meeting with the police, Ajaero asserted the NLC’s unwavering commitment to defending the rights of Nigerian workers, despite any form of intimidation.
“We can’t be intimidated,” he declared.
“The allegations against us are baseless, and we have nothing to hide.”
Reflecting on the challenges faced by labor leaders, Ajaero shared his experience of past struggles, saying,
“You can’t do this job we’re doing without this type of hazard. Even at the unit level, some of us experienced it, as far back as 1997/1998 with Femi Falana. We were equally together in the cell during the time of Abacha… but whatever the case is, we’re out to continue the struggle. We’ve gotten the minimum wage, but we can’t be intimidated. We have to press for its implementation as soon as possible. Every other thing that will make the welfare of Nigerian workers worthwhile, we will be involved in it.”
Ajaero emphasized that his appearance before the police was a demonstration of transparency, aiming to clear the air on the accusations leveled against him and the NLC.
He reiterated the union’s resolve to continue fighting for the welfare of workers, standing firm in the face of any challenges.
“Our resolve is stronger than ever,” he added. “We will continue to champion the cause of workers across the nation, no matter the obstacles.”
The NLC president’s appearance at the IRT headquarters followed his initial police invitation on August 20, which he was unable to attend due to unforeseen circumstances.
Despite the seriousness of the allegations, Ajaero maintained a confident stance, dismissing the claims as an attempt to weaken the labor movement.
He assured that the union remains united and focused on its mission, undeterred by attempts to undermine its efforts.