The Nigeria Police Force has issued a summons to Joe Ajaero, the National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), to answer allegations of terrorism financing, cybercrime, and other related offences.
The police have warned that failure to comply with the summons could result in the issuance of a warrant for his arrest.
The invitation, signed by ACP Adamu Muazu on behalf of the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Intelligence Response Team, outlines the serious nature of the accusations. The letter states, “This office is investigating a case of Criminal Conspiracy, Terrorism Financing, Treasonable Felony, Subversion, and Cybercrime in which you have been implicated.” Ajaero has been instructed to appear for questioning on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Old Abattoir by Guzape Junction, Abuja. The letter emphasizes that non-compliance will lead to further legal actions.
At the time of reporting, Ajaero had not yet responded to the summons, and attempts to reach him for comment were unsuccessful.
This development comes amid escalating tensions between the NLC and the government. The NLC has recently accused the government of targeting the organization, particularly after a raid on its headquarters by security forces. During a press conference held last Thursday in Abuja, NLC leaders rejected the police’s explanation for the raid, which was allegedly aimed at apprehending an international terrorist suspect. The NLC described the justification as a cover-up and pointed out inconsistencies in the police’s account.
The NLC also demanded an apology from the government, the return of seized items, and the release of detained individuals. Additionally, the union condemned what it perceives as government attempts to interfere in its internal affairs, including a proposed reduction in the tenure of trade union leaders. The NLC argues that such actions are in violation of labour laws and international conventions.
As the situation unfolds, the NLC’s leadership has vowed to resist any government actions that threaten the autonomy and rights of the labour movement in Nigeria.
The case against Ajaero is likely to further strain relations between the NLC and the government, raising concerns about the broader implications for labour rights in the country.
More details to follow…
(Punch)
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