In a recent conference held by the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in London, the Nigerian government faced accusations of human rights abuses. The allegations were made by the TUC leader, who claimed that Nigeria had violated human rights. However, the Nigerian government has categorically denied these claims, stating that they are unfounded and based on misinformation.
The controversy began when Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), was prevented from traveling abroad. According to the Nigerian government, Ajaero had ignored an invitation from a law enforcement agency conducting an ongoing investigation. “No one is above the law in Nigeria,” stated Bayo Onanuga, the government spokesperson, emphasizing that Ajaero’s actions had serious consequences.
In a recent development, Ajaero has been released by the DSS.
The government further clarified that under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (As Amended), no individual is exempt from the summons of law enforcement agencies. “Like the United Kingdom and other civilized nations, Nigeria is a country governed by the Constitution,” Onanuga added.
Drawing comparisons with other countries, the Nigerian government pointed out that trade union leaders in the UK, Europe, and the United States would not ignore summons from agencies like MI5, Scotland Yard, or the FBI. “In the United States, for example, former President Donald Trump has faced numerous investigations and prosecutions,” Onanuga noted.
The government also highlighted that Nigeria is led by a pro-democracy activist president committed to protecting civil liberties and the rights of all citizens. “There is no adversarial relationship between the Labour Movement in Nigeria and the government,” Onanuga said, adding that the government is always ready to engage with labour unions on policy issues.
Contrary to the impression being created, the invitation extended to Ajaero by the Department of State Services had nothing to do with his role as NLC President. “As a responsible citizen, Mr. Ajaero should honor any invitation from our security agencies,” Onanuga urged.
The government reminded Nigerians and the global community that the labour movement exists to protect the interests of its members. However, it also noted that many ideological stances of the labour unions have stunted Nigeria’s economic growth. “A case in point was the opposition to the sale of Port-Harcourt and Kaduna Refineries in 2007,” Onanuga recalled.
