The National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu formally apologized to the organized labor for the disturbing assault on Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), which transpired in Owerri, Imo State’s capital, on November 1.
Ajaero, who had travelled to Owerri to lead a peaceful protest, was subjected to severe beatings and detained for an extended period of time. Responding to this egregious incident, the labour union issued a stern ultimatum to the government, demanding the prompt arrest of those responsible for the attack on Ajaero. Additionally, they threatened to initiate a nationwide strike if their demands were not met.
Despite the Federal Government’s legal efforts to restrain the labour union, the strike went into effect on Monday, causing widespread disruptions across the nation.
In an official statement from the Office of the National Security Adviser, signed by Zakari U Mijinyawa, Head of Strategic Communications, Ribadu expressed deep regret over the incident in Imo. He unequivocally condemned the violence, emphasising that such actions run counter to the principles of the rule of law and the fundamental freedoms of association and expression championed by President Tinubu and his administration.
Ribadu appealed to the organised labour to reconsider their stance on the ongoing strike, assuring them that the individuals responsible for the assault on Ajaero have been apprehended. Furthermore, he highlighted that comprehensive investigations are currently underway. The statement underscored the federal government’s unwavering commitment to addressing the issue and upholding the fundamental principles of justice and freedom
“The NSA is particularly worried about the implications of the strike action on the livelihood of ordinary Nigerians and its potential impact on economic security and other strategic national interests.
“As attested by the NLC leadership, the NSA immediately intervened on learning about the travails of the President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joseph Ajero, who was assaulted in Owerri, Imo State.
“The NSA regrets the incident and condemns it in its entirety, as it was against the rule of law and the principles of freedom of association and expression subscribed to by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration.
“The Federal Government will never condone such an act.
“As a fallout of the incident relevant authorities were directed to conduct thorough investigation into the circumstances sorrounding the assault and bring to book the culprits. Available update indicates that some arrests have already been made in this regard. The outcome of the investigation will be made public as soon as it is concluded.
“The Federal Government, through the Office of the NSA, therefore, appeals to the labour leadership to call off the current strike action and allow the dialogue process underway to be exhausted.”
