NLC President: Above The Law Or Within It?

NLC President: Above The Law Or Within It?....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a controversial development, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajaero, has been summoned by the police for questioning over serious allegations, including criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, treasonable felony, subversion, and cybercrime. However, Ajaero has yet to respond to the summons, amid accusations from union members of a politically motivated witch-hunt……CONTINUE READING 

The NLC views this police action as a form of intimidation, harassment, and victimization, dismissing the allegations as groundless. The union believes this move is an attempt to undermine and destabilize the labour movement. Ado Minjibir, NLC Deputy President, described the situation as an attack on the rights and freedoms of the working class, warning that the union may resort to mass protests and industrial actions to defend its independence.

Despite agreeing to honour the police invitation on August 29, the NLC has instructed its affiliates and state chapters to prepare for nationwide strikes or protests if Ajaero is detained.

The central issue here is whether Ajaero is above the law. The police had directed Ajaero to report to their office by August 20, warning that failure to do so would result in a warrant for his arrest. This follows a night raid on the NLC national secretariat in Abuja on July 7, during which security guards were detained, and offices were searched.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, explained that the raid was part of an effort to track down one of the terrorists responsible for the Sudanese crisis, which has claimed 15,000 lives. The police were also looking for seditious materials linked to the recent #EndBadGovernance protest, where some participants waved Russian flags and called for President Bola Tinubu’s resignation, prompting Ajaero’s summons.

The NLC has denounced the investigation as politically motivated and baseless. However, this does not excuse Ajaero from complying with the law and honouring the police invitation.

Given Nigeria’s ongoing battle with terrorism, addressing terrorism financing is crucial to dismantling extremist groups and enhancing national security. Therefore, instead of threatening strikes, the NLC should encourage Ajaero to cooperate with the investigation to clear his name.

It’s important to note that the Police Act 2020 grants the police the authority to invite any individual for questioning, and citizens are legally obligated to comply with such requests if they are made formally. The NLC should avoid encouraging its leader to disregard the law, as anyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

For example, former U.S. President Donald Trump faced numerous charges and complied with legal procedures, including questioning and trials. There is nothing unusual about Ajaero being summoned for questioning, and he is entitled to have his lawyers present.

However, the police must exercise caution to avoid a return to the arbitrary arrests and detentions reminiscent of military rule. The Inspector-General must ensure that the rights of Nigerians, including NLC members, are respected, and that Ajaero’s fundamental human rights are protected.

It is up to Ajaero’s legal team to demonstrate if there is any ulterior motive behind the police’s actions. Nonetheless, given the severe impact of insurgency on Nigeria, allegations of terrorism financing and treason cannot be taken lightly. All Nigerians, including labour union members, should support efforts to prevent subversive elements from destabilizing the country.

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