The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have announced a series of demands in response to the recent assault on Comrade Joe Ajaero, the NLC President, and other workers and journalists. The assault, along with various grievances, had prompted the nationwide strike scheduled for November 8, 2023.
The labor unions expressed their concern for Comrade Ajaero's deteriorating health and their outrage over the alleged brutal treatment of workers and journalists by the Police and Imo State Government. They also raised questions about the complicity of federal agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, and the apparent silence of the Federal Government in response to the incident.
The demands presented by the labor unions include the investigation and immediate reassignment of the Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, and the removal of other officers and men involved in the assault. They also call for the arrest and prosecution of Mr. Nwaneri Chinasa, who allegedly supervised the attack on workers and Comrade Ajaero.
Additionally, the unions demand an independent medical examination of Comrade Ajaero, treatment and restoration of property for workers and journalists subjected to mistreatment, and the implementation of previously agreed-upon Industrial Relations issues with the Imo State Government.
The labor movement asserted that there was no court order restraining them from carrying out a peaceful protest, and they questioned the validity of such an order if it existed. They highlighted the physical and psychological injuries suffered by Comrade Ajaero and the workers.
The labor unions' decision to lay out these demands is a significant step in their efforts to address the grievances and concerns that have led to the strike action, aiming to bring resolution and justice to the situation
