NLC Rejects Mudslinging On Joe Ajaero By CSOs
By Ahmad Tijjani Abdul
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Kano State Chapter has issued a strong rebuttal to recent accusations leveled against its national president, Comrade Joe Ajaero, by a coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), who alleged that the labour leader was meddling in political affairs.
Speaking at a press briefing in Kano, Comrade Kabiru Inuwa, Chairman of the Kano NLC, described the allegations as “fictional, baseless, and misleading,” expressing disappointment that respected civil society actors would resort to what he termed “misguided activism.”
“We have gathered here today to respond to the unfounded accusations against our President, Comrade Joe Ajaero. It amazes us that individuals who claim to fight for a better society would stoop to such misleading narratives,” Inuwa stated.
Comrade Inuwa emphasized that the NLC’s mandate extends beyond the welfare of workers alone. Citing Article 3 of the NLC Constitution, he reminded the public that the Congress is tasked with defending the rights of workers, pensioners, and promoting a just, democratic, and transparent Nigerian society.
“The Congress is not restricted to labour issues alone. We engage in matters that affect the broader society, including fuel price hikes and disenfranchisement. The CSOs themselves have joined us in such protests, why then accuse us of political bias now?” he asked.
Inuwa clarified that any industrial action by the NLC follows a rigorous democratic process involving multiple layers of approval, from the National Administrative Council to the National Working Committee, and finally the Executive Council comprising state chairmen and secretaries.
“No strike is declared unilaterally. The President cannot act alone. Every action is subject to internal democratic procedures,” he affirmed.
Addressing the controversy surrounding Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, Inuwa defended Ajaero’s stance, stating that it was rooted in concern for the constituents affected by her prolonged absence.
“This is not about politics. It’s about ensuring that the people she represents, workers and non-workers alike, are not denied their democratic rights,” he said.
Comrade Inuwa further reaffirmed Kano NLC’s unwavering support for Comrade Joe Ajaero and the broader mission of the Congress.
“We stand in solidarity with our President. We are committed to defending democracy and the rights of all Nigerians. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a democrat who listens to the Congress, and we trust in his leadership,”
Recently, a coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs) under the banner ‘The Campaign for the Protection of Workers’ Rights in Nigeria’ accused the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) of interfering in the affairs of the National Assembly regarding the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.