‘Our patriotism is unshakable’ – Ajaero

The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has hailed the labour movement as the most patriotic organization in the country, vowing that the union will remain steadfast in its commitment to national service, regardless of the challenges it faces.

Speaking to a crowd of union members who gathered at the NLC headquarters to welcome him after responding to a police summons on Thursday, Ajaero emphasized the enduring dedication of the labour movement.

“The labour movement is worth every sacrifice due to its deep-rooted patriotism and commitment,” Ajaero said. “From the days of colonial rule to the military era, our loyalty to Nigeria has been unwavering. We are more patriotic than any other institution in this country, and we will continue to uphold that legacy. We’ve been to the police, and now we’re back—I just want to assure you that we remain steadfast.”

The NLC leader had been summoned by the police to answer questions regarding alleged involvement in terrorism financing, cybercrime, subversion, criminal conspiracy, and treasonable felony. Ajaero characterized the police invitation as a typical challenge faced by labour leaders, recalling that even at the unit level, he had been detained under the regime of the late former head of state, General Sani Abacha, in the 1990s.

He underscored that his focus remains on advocating for better welfare for Nigerian workers and that he will not be distracted. Ajaero expressed gratitude to the NLC members at the headquarters and across the country for their solidarity.

Ajaero left the headquarters of the police Intelligence Response Team around 11:15 a.m. after submitting his statement. His invitation by the police last week sparked widespread reactions, with the labour union accusing the police of harassment.

During an emergency meeting following the invitation, the NLC National Executive Council dismissed the allegations against Ajaero as baseless and politically motivated, aimed at silencing organized labour. Amnesty International Nigeria also condemned the police’s actions, calling the accusations an attempt to intimidate the union.