The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has strongly warned the newly inaugurated Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, urging him to steer clear of interfering in matters concerning the Labour Congress within the state. Ajaero highlighted the importance of allowing the union to function without undue influence or intimidation from the government.
In his statement, Ajaero specifically cautioned the governor against instigating conflicts with the union, emphasizing that the governor should focus on governance and avoid unnecessary confrontations with labour leaders.
This stern warning from the NLC President comes in the wake of a recent incident where security operatives, reportedly from the Edo State Police Command, forcefully entered and disrupted activities at the NLC’s office in Edo State. This act has raised serious concerns among union members, with many perceiving it as an attempt to suppress their operations.
The NLC, in a strongly worded statement, expressed its deep concern over what it described as the “illegal breaking in and entry into the offices of the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress by some police personnel of Edo State Police Command.” The union further demanded an explanation and an apology for the unwarranted actions.
Reacting to the incident, Ajaero raised concerns that the security operatives might have acted at the governor’s behest, given the timing and the nature of the operation. He pointed out that whether the police acted on their own accord or under the directive of Governor Okpebholo, such actions are unacceptable and require immediate rectification. The NLC demanded a public apology to restore trust and accountability.
“Acts of intimidation of trade unions or their leaders are equally off-limits as these constitute not only a violation of trade union and human rights but also a serious threat to our hard-won democracy,” Ajaero emphasized.
In his statement, Ajaero urged Governor Okpebholo to focus on his responsibilities as a newly elected leader, stating, “As a brand-new governor, he should have his priorities. We would hate to think that authorizing the harassment of trade union leaders is one of them.”
The NLC President further called on the police to maintain their professionalism and integrity, adding, “As for the police, they should retrieve their honour, if they can, by not lending themselves to the performance of dirty jobs in contravention of their oath of office.”
Concluding his remarks, Ajaero issued a firm warning to the Edo State government and its law enforcement agencies, declaring, “Leave Edo State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress alone! It is too soon to start a fight with us.”
