Owerri, Imo State – In a shocking turn of events, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, was forcibly taken by security operatives during a protest in Owerri, the capital of Imo State. The incident unfolded amidst a chaotic scene, with even journalists fleeing to safety as the situation escalated.
Imo State Erupts in Chaos as NLC President Joe Ajaero is Abducted
The NLC leader had traveled to Owerri to lead a protest against the alleged rights violations of workers in the state. However, the peaceful demonstration quickly spiraled into violence as security operatives stormed the venue and apprehended Ajaero, further intensifying the unrest.
In a press release issued by the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, the Imo State government was accused of employing violence and intimidation tactics against trade unions and their leadership. The statement, released on November 1, 2023, outlined the events leading to Ajaero’s abduction and the broader context of labor-related issues in the state.
Violent Confrontation at NLC Protest in Owerri Capital
Earlier in the morning, the police attempted to disperse workers who had gathered at the Imo State NLC secretariat, but they were unsuccessful in doing so. Subsequently, a group of thugs, traveling in Hilux and Toyota trucks, descended on the workers, subjecting them to a brutal assault. Vehicles were damaged, individuals were injured, and personal belongings were stolen.
The situation escalated when Comrade Joe Ajaero arrived at the venue to inspect the damage and provide leadership for the labor action. However, he was met by a large contingent of Imo State police officers, who were accompanied by more thugs, allegedly including individuals close to the state government. This group descended upon Ajaero and the remaining workers, inflicting severe injuries, including blows to his head and body.
Imo State Governor Accused of Violent Intimidation Against Workers
The Nigeria Labour Congress’s statement explicitly accused the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, and the State Commissioner of Police of orchestrating the abduction. The labor unions demanded the immediate release of their leader and condemned the use of violence against peaceful protesters and workers.
The incident has triggered widespread outrage and calls for accountability in Imo State. Trade unions and civil society organizations have come out in solidarity with the NLC, demanding justice for the workers and an end to the intimidation and violence directed towards them.
Journalists who had gathered to cover the protest were also caught in the turmoil, with many fleeing for their safety. The chaotic scenes in Owerri have drawn international attention, as concerns grow over the state of labor rights and freedom of expression in the region.
The situation in Imo State is fluid, and developments are expected as various stakeholders react to the shocking events. The Nigeria Labour Congress remains resolute in its demand for the immediate release of Joe Ajaero and an end to the violence and intimidation faced by workers in the state.
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