Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has firmly announced its stance against participating in late-night meetings convened by the Federal Government, especially on the brink of planned industrial actions. The President of NLC, Joe Ajaero, made this declaration during a press conference held in Abuja on Wednesday.
Ajaero voiced concerns that these nocturnal gatherings are often used as a tactic to mislead the Congress and hinder its scheduled protests or strikes. He emphasized that such engagements give rise to misconceptions among Nigerians, portraying the Congress as engaged in discussions unrelated to the primary issue at hand.
The NLC leader asserted that the Congress would only engage in meetings with government officials when no actions have been declared. He highlighted the failure of government attempts to halt nationwide protests on Tuesday, citing the lack of resolution in the closed-door meeting between organized labor leadership and the government on Sunday.
Describing the outcome of the Sunday meeting, Ajaero criticized it as an “obsolete strategy” employed by the government to stall, dishearten, and demobilize protesters nationwide. He stated unequivocally that the NLC would no longer entertain meetings on the eve of any action, labeling such tactics as outdated and ineffective.
Ajaero further alleged that government officials have resorted to divisive tactics, including inciting counter-protests, in attempts to undermine the NLC’s efforts. Despite such challenges, he affirmed the Congress’s resilience and commitment to its cause.
Expressing concern over the militarization of NLC offices across the country by the federal government, Ajaero reassured members that they would not be intimidated by any threats.
He also accused the government of consistently breaching agreements and laws, citing the example of the non-functional Port Harcourt refinery, which was slated to commence operations in December of the previous year. Ajaero criticized the government for its failure to fulfill promises, particularly in vital sectors such as petroleum.
In conclusion, the NLC president emphasized the Congress’s determination to uphold its principles and hold the government accountable for its actions.
