Peter Obi Urges Caution in Handling Allegations Against NLC President, Joe Ajaero

The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on the Federal Government to exercise extreme caution in handling the serious allegations leveled against the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero.

The police recently summoned Ajaero for questioning over alleged criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, treasonable felony, subversion, and cybercrime. The news has sparked widespread concern, given Ajaero's prominent position within the labor movement.

Reacting to the development on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Obi acknowledged that the invitation is not entirely surprising, considering Ajaero's leadership role in the NLC. However, Obi stressed the need for clarity in the allegations, which he described as "weighty" and lacking details regarding the context and whether they pertain to Ajaero's personal actions or his responsibilities as the head of the NLC.

"The alleged infractions listed on the letter of invitation circulating on social media are weighty, and there is no clarity on the circumstances or whether the authorities are attributing these to personal conduct or to Ajaero's role as the undisputed leader of the NLC," Obi stated.

He further emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring that due process is followed in addressing the allegations. Obi also expressed concerns that the government might resort to autocratic methods to suppress labor as a potential opposition force.

"Extreme caution must thus be exercised in the manner in which this issue is handled. It is not unexpected that the government will try autocratic methods to subdue labor as a potential opposition force," Obi added. "Invitations like the one to Ajaero are expected. But the rule of law and the laws of evidence should be observed. Labor should stick to its strengths and powers in order to maintain democratic order."

The situation continues to draw attention, with many awaiting further clarification on the allegations and the next steps in the investigation.