NLC Declares Allegations Against Ajaero by Senator Natasha Unacceptable
NLC Declares Allegations Against Ajaero by Senator Natasha Unacceptable
The Kano State branch of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has rejected claims made by a Coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) accusing its President, Joe Ajaero, of engaging in political activities rather than promoting the interests of Nigerian workers.
Comrade Kabiru Inuwa, the Chairman of the union, responded to the CSOs’ allegations in Kano on Saturday with his remarks.
Comrade Inuwa characterized the allegations as “fictional, baseless, and misleading,” expressing dismay that esteemed civil society figures would engage in what he referred to as “misguided activism.”
“We are here today to address the baseless accusations made against our President, Comrade Joe Ajaero. It is astonishing that those who profess to advocate for a better society would resort to spreading such misleading stories,” he stated.
He clarified that the NLC’s mandate encompasses more than just workers’ welfare. Referring to Article 3 of the NLC Constitution, he reminded everyone that the congress is responsible for protecting the rights of both workers and pensioners, while also advocating for a fair, democratic, and transparent society in Nigeria.
“The Congress addresses a wide range of issues beyond just labor concerns. We tackle matters impacting the larger society, such as increases in fuel prices and voter disenfranchisement. Civil Society Organizations have joined us in these protests; so why are we now being accused of political bias?” asked the Chairman.
He stated that any industrial action by the NLC undergoes a thorough democratic process, requiring multiple levels of approval. This starts with the National Administrative Council, moves to the National Working Committee, and concludes with the Executive Council consisting of state chairmen and secretaries.
He affirmed that “No strike is declared independently. The President cannot act alone, as every action must adhere to internal democratic procedures.”
Regarding the controversy over Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, Inuwa supported Ajaero’s position, emphasizing that it was based on concerns for the constituents impacted by her extended absence.
“This isn’t about politics; it’s about making sure that all the people she represents, whether they are workers or not, have their democratic rights upheld,” he stated.
Comrade Inuwa once again confirmed Kano NLC’s steadfast support for Comrade Joe Ajaero and the Congress’s overall mission.
He expressed support for our President, emphasizing their dedication to upholding democracy and the rights of all Nigerians. He affirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a democratic leader who values input from Congress, and conveyed trust in his leadership.
A group of civil society organizations, operating under the banner ‘Campaign for the Protection of Workers’ Rights in Nigeria’, has alleged that the NLC, led by Comrade Ajaero, is interfering with National Assembly matters concerning Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension.
It also alleged that Congress has strayed from its mission to promote the interests of Nigerian workers and has instead become “a willing tool in the hands of individual politicians.”
