Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
The Ebonyi State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has declared that it will not tolerate any form of intimidation against unionists in Nigeria.
This stance was made clear during a workers’ procession on Thursday, held to express solidarity with the NLC’s national president, Comrade Joe Ajaero, who is currently under police investigation for alleged involvement in financing terrorism.
The union leaders marched from PA Ngele Oruta Township Stadium, Abakaliki, to the headquarters of the State Police Command. At the entrance gate, they gathered for an hour, praying and chanting solidarity songs.
Speaking at the event, the state chairman, Professor Ogugua Egwu, stated, “We are here to show our unwavering support for our national president, Comrade Joe Ajaero, who is being unjustly interrogated on charges that have not been substantiated. As Nigerian workers, we stand united against any attempt to intimidate or silence our voices. If this interrogation is a ploy to intimidate unionists and labor leaders, we say it’s completely unacceptable.”
Professor Egwu emphasized the Congress’s commitment to defending their leader, likening the situation to the biblical story of John the Baptist, who was persecuted for speaking truth to power. “We believe our Comrade President, a symbol of integrity, should not be tarnished by unfounded accusations. It is our historic responsibility to defend him and ensure that the truth prevails,” he declared.
He further urged the authorities to carry out their duties with fairness and justice, warning that the NLC will not back down in the face of intimidation. “We are here today, united in one voice, to declare that the hand of Herod will not be upon our Comrade President. We will continue to speak truth to power, and we will not be silenced,” he concluded.
In response, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of operations, DCP Anyai Dennis, who received the labor leaders on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, commended them for their peaceful conduct during the procession. He assured them that their message had been received and that the Nigeria Police Force would ensure that justice is served in the matter involving their National President, Comrade Ajaero.