The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has strongly condemned the recent attack on the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero.
The association, in a statement jointly signed by its President, Festus Osifo, and Secretary, Lumumba Okugbawa, expressed deep concern over the incident, characterizing it as an existential threat to the trade union movement in Nigeria.
Imo Protest: NLC Accuses Police of Brutality Against President
According to PENGASSAN, the assault on Ajaero not only represents a violation of human rights but also stands as an affront to the fundamental principles of democracy, freedom of expression, and association. The statement emphasized the need for the safeguarding of the rights and safety of labor leaders in the country, reiterating the vital role they play in advocating for the welfare of workers.
“Violence against union leaders or any individuals fighting for the rights of workers is not only an attack on them but also undermines the fundamentals of social dialogue and activism. These acts of violence seek to silence the voices of those who speak up for the vulnerable and marginalized, and they must be vehemently condemned by the society as a whole, PENGASSAN said.
“PENGASSAN demands that the authorities conduct a thorough investigation into this cowardly attack and bring the perpetrators to justice. We call on law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of all workers, activists and union leaders, providing them with the necessary protection to carry out their essential duties without fear of reprisal.
“We also urge civil society organizations, trade unions, and citizens to stand in solidarity with NLC and Comrade Joe Ajaero and to denounce this act of violence. It is crucial that we collectively reject any attempts to suppress voices that advocate for the rights and well-being of workers and fight for a more equitable society.
“Our noble Association stands in solidarity with our ally in the struggle, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and expresses deep concern for his well-being and recovery. We will continue to work tirelessly to support the rights of workers, advocate for social justice, and combat any form of violence or repression that seeks to curtail the progress we have made thus far.
“All PENGASSAN members are hereby put on red alert as the days ahead will be stormy and tumultuous. We urge all trade unions and the two labour centres to respond to this ugly act in a very drastic way because injury to one is truly an injury to all.”
Ajaero was apprehended during a workers’ protest in Owerri, the capital of Imo State, over what was described as the state government’s continuous abuse and infringement on workers’ rights. While the police maintained that Ajaero was detained for his own protection, the NLC has alleged that he was subjected to brutality following his arrest.
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, barely a day after Ajaero’s release, accused the NLC leader of intertwining politics with unionism.
Uzodinma Accuses NLC President of Meddling in State Politics
