Shock, Disbelief, As Police Accuse NLC President, Joe Ajaero, Of Terrorism, Treasonable Felony, Invite Him For Interrogation

By Ayodele Oni

Threatens to issue a warrant of arrest against Ajaero if he fails to show up for questioning

In a shocking development, the Nigeria Police Force, NPF, has accused  Joe Ajaero, the National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, (NLC) of terrorism and its financing. The NPF has, therefore, invited Ajaero for Interrogation. He will be  NPF’s guest on Tuesday, August 20, 2024. Time, 10.00am.

He will be  questioned on  alleged connections to terrorism financing and other very serious charges, including treasonable felony and subversion.

The summon was detailed in a letter from the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Intelligence Response Team (IRT), within the Department of Force Intelligence.

The letter, signed by Adamu S. Muazu warns that non-compliance with the invitation could result in arrest.

The letter reads:

“This office is investigating a case of criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, treasonable felony, subversion, and cybercrime in which you have been implicated.

“You are therefore required to report to the undersigned for an interview on Tuesday, 20th August 2024, at 10:00 a.m. prompt, at Old Abattoir by Guzape Junction, Abuja, through the Team Leader at telephone number 08035179870, in connection with the above investigation.

“Be informed that if you fail to honor this letter, this office will have no choice but to issue a warrant for your arrest.”

The IRT is currently investigating serious allegations, including criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, treason, subversion, and cybercrime.

The NLC had accused the Federal Government of launching an attack against the organization following a recent raid on its headquarters by security forces.

In a press conference held in Abuja last Thursday, NLC leaders criticized the Police explanation for the raid, demanding an apology, the return of confiscated items, and the release of those detained.

The NLC also denounced the Government’s attempts to meddle in its internal matters, such as a proposed reduction in the tenure of trade union leaders, which it argues contravenes labor laws and international standards.

The Police had stated that the raid was aimed at capturing an international terrorist suspect. However, the NLC rejected this justification. The NLC labeled it a cover-up and pointed out discrepancies in the Police’s account.

The serious allegations against Ajaero, and his invitation for questioning, and threat of arrest, is likely to worsen the relationship between the Organised Labour and the Government.