The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has condemned the recent attack on Comrade Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
PENGASSAN denounced the attack on Ajareo as an existential threat to the Nigerian trade union movement in a statement signed by its President, Festus Osifo, and Secretary, Lumumba Okugbawa.
PENGASSAN also denounced the attack on the labour leader as a flagrant breach of human rights and an assault on democratic, free expression, and association norms.
Ajaero was arrested in Owerri, the capital of Imo State on Wednesday during a protest by workers in Imo State over an alleged “serial and habitual abuse and violation” of their rights by the state government.
Police said Ajeoro was taken into custody for his protection, but the NLC said he was brutalised after his arrest.
Barely a day after his release, the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, accused the NLC leader of mixing politics with unionism.
“Violence against union leaders or any individuals fighting for the rights of workers is not only an attack on them but also undermines the fundamentals of social dialogue and activism. These acts of violence seek to silence the voices of those who speak up for the vulnerable and marginalized, and they must be vehemently condemned by the society as a whole, PENGASSAN said.
“PENGASSAN demands that the authorities conduct a thorough investigation into this cowardly attack and bring the perpetrators to justice. We call on law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of all workers, activists and union leaders, providing them with the necessary protection to carry out their essential duties without fear of reprisal.
“We also urge civil society organizations, trade unions, and citizens to stand in solidarity with NLC and Comrade Joe Ajaero and to denounce this act of violence. It is crucial that we collectively reject any attempts to suppress voices that advocate for the rights and well-being of workers and fight for a more equitable society.
“Our noble Association stands in solidarity with our ally in the struggle, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and expresses deep concern for his well-being and recovery. We will continue to work tirelessly to support the rights of workers, advocate for social justice, and combat any form of violence or repression that seeks to curtail the progress we have made thus far.
“All PENGASSAN members are hereby put on red alert as the days ahead will be stormy and tumultuous. We urge all trade unions and the two labour centres to respond to this ugly act in a very drastic way because injury to one is truly an injury to all.”