The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has declared that all attempts to intimidate and silence the organized labour movement in the country will fail. He made this assertion in response to recent actions taken by security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS), aimed at questioning his activities.
Ajaero, who has been under scrutiny in recent weeks, revealed that he would comply with a new police invitation on Wednesday, September 25, following an earlier summons. Addressing workers and union leaders in Lagos, the NLC President condemned the recent actions against him and the broader labour movement, framing them as a deliberate attempt to undermine their efforts.
“Recently, I was arrested and detained by the state, a clear attempt to intimidate and silence our movement. They hoped to find wrongdoing, but we have kept faith alive. We must all do the same,” Ajaero told union members.
He continued by recounting his appearance before state authorities on August 29 and confirmed his intention to meet another summons at the police headquarters in Abuja. He emphasized that the strength of the labour movement lies in its unwavering integrity and commitment to the cause of workers.
“Our hands must remain unsullied, our hearts pure, so that when the enemies of our movement come, as they will, they will find nothing to use against us,” Ajaero said. “As we prepare for the struggles ahead, remember they can imprison our bodies, but they cannot imprison our spirit. They can throw every obstacle in our path, but they cannot destroy our unity. We must be vigilant, united, and ready to stand firm in the face of whatever may come.”
Ajaero also expressed profound gratitude to international organizations and global trade unions that have supported the NLC during its recent challenges. He extended special thanks to the International Labour Organization (ILO), the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), ITUC-Africa, Public Services International (PSI), Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), Trade Union Congress (TUC) of the UK, IndustriALL Global Union, the German Federation of Trade Unions, and LO Norway.
“Your collective voices condemned the actions of the government against the NLC and its leadership, and for this, we remain profoundly grateful,” Ajaero stated, acknowledging the unwavering solidarity shown by these organizations and patriotic Nigerians.
The labour leader’s remarks underscore his commitment to leading a resilient and principled labour movement, undeterred by external pressure. As the NLC prepares for future struggles, Ajaero’s message calls for unity and vigilance among workers across the country.
