The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has threatened a nationwide strike if anything happens to its President, Joe Ajaero, who has been summoned by the police for questioning over allegations of terrorism financing and treason.
This development follows a police raid on the NLC headquarters, which the police claimed was part of an investigation into a terrorist linked to Sudan’s crisis.
The NPF invitation was contained in a letter dated 19th August 2024, and signed by ACP Adamu Muazu on behalf of the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Intelligence Response Team.
The summon had ordered the NLC president to present himself for questioning by 10:00 am today (Tuesday).
The police also warned that a warrant of arrest would be issued if Ajaero failed to comply.
However, the NLC views the allegations as politically motivated and is mobilising workers for potential industrial action.
While Ajaero plans to honour the police invitation, his lawyers have requested a postponement.
This was conveyed in a letter from the Femi Falana Chambers, the legal representatives for the NLC, dated August 20, 2024.
According to the letter, signed by Samuel Ogala, a principal partner at the law firm, Ajaero only received the police invitation the day before the meeting, by which time he had already committed to another engagement.
The letter, addressed to the Inspector General of Police, stated that Ajaero would be available to meet with the police on August 29, after he has been informed of the specific allegations against him.
“We have the instruction of Comrade Joe Ajaero to inform you that he was unable to honour your invitation on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, in view of the fact that your invitation letter was received by him yesterday. He has an engagement that had been fixed before the receipt of your invitation,” the letter explained.
