Emmanuel Ugboaja, the NLC Secretary General, recently attracted attention by calling for a peaceful procession and prayer session in solidarity with the union members. This followed the police’s invitation to Joe Ajaero, the NLC President, for questioning on charges of alleged “criminal conspiracy, financing of terrorism, high treason, subversion and cybercrime”.
Ugboaja’s call for mobilisation is clear: NLC affiliates and state councils must assemble in Abuja and the various states to demonstrate their support. He calls on members of the Central Executive Committee residing in Abuja and all other members to assemble at the NLC National Headquarters at 8am on 29th August, to accompany the President during his interview with the police.
In state capitals, members are invited to gather at their respective union headquarters and then peacefully march to their state police headquarters where a prayer session will be held pending the conclusion of the President’s meeting with the authorities.
This peaceful march is an act of solidarity in the face of unjust actions aimed at intimidating our leaders and stifling the voices of Nigerian workers. Ugboaja stresses the importance of remaining peaceful and orderly throughout the protest and prayer session.
In the event of the President’s detention, an indefinite nationwide strike will be called. The call for support and solidarity at this critical time is crucial to defend civil rights, integrity and the rights of the trade union movement.
This mobilisation is a testament to the dynamism and determination of NLC members to fight against all forms of intimidation and injustice. In a country where social dialogue remains a key issue, this peaceful demonstration and collective action underscores the importance of respecting workers’ rights and trade union democracy.
The NLC members are preparing to face a crucial test and defend their rights with dignity and firmness. Their unity in the face of adversity reinforces the legitimacy and strength of the trade union movement in Nigeria. Through this mobilization, workers express their solidarity and determination to defend their interests and fight for fair and just working conditions.
Ultimately, this mobilization for peace and solidarity within the NLC is a testament to the ability of Nigerian workers to come together and resist external pressures to defend their rights and dignity.