Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and Emmanuel Ugboaja, the union’s Secretary General, have been summoned again by the Nigerian Police. The new summons, detailed in a letter dated August 28, 2024, follows Ajaero’s recent appearance at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
The letter, signed by CP Rufus Alajide on behalf of the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Intelligence Department, outlines that this latest invitation is part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of criminal intimidation, malicious damage to property, and actions likely to disrupt public peace.
The summons reads:
“In furtherance of investigations into the alleged case of Criminal Intimidation, Conduct Likely to Cause Breach of Public Peace, and Malicious Damage to Properties in which your name featured, you are requested to come along with Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja for an interview with the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Intelligence Department (FID) at SPO’s Room 12, 2nd Floor, Force Intelligence Department (FID) Complex, Shehu Shagari Way, opposite Force Headquarters Area 11, Garki, Abuja on Thursday, 5th September 2024 at 11am. Upon arrival, please contact Mr. Usman at GSM number 08039659139. Your cooperation in this regard is highly solicited.”
Previously, Ajaero had been summoned by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Intelligence Response Team (IRT), regarding accusations including criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, treasonable felony, subversion, and cybercrime. On Thursday morning, Ajaero, accompanied by human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, and other supporters, appeared at the Force Headquarters in response to the initial summons. Following the meeting, he returned to the NLC headquarters to address a large gathering of members showing their support.
Ajaero reiterated the NLC’s commitment to the nation, stating, “The labour movement is worth dying for because of its patriotism and commitment. The labour movement is one of the biggest pan-Nigerian organizations, and our patriotism, from the days of colonial government to even the period of the military, is unshakable.”
