Details have emerged from the recent interrogation of Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), by the Police’s Intelligence Response Team (IRT) over allegations of criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, treasonable felony, subversion, and cybercrime.
On August 19, the Police invited Ajaero for questioning, scheduled for August 20, in connection with these serious accusations.
According to exclusive information obtained by Vanguard, the interrogation was attended by prominent human rights activists, including Femi Falana (SAN), Maxwell Opara, and Deji Adeyanju, alongside DCP Sanusi Mohammed, leader of the IRT. Operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) were also present.
Sources revealed that the questioning, which lasted less than 30 minutes, focused on the operator of the Iva Valley Bookshop located on the second floor of Labour House. Ajaero reportedly clarified that the suspect in question was merely a tenant of the NLC, emphasizing that their relationship was strictly that of landlord and tenant. He further stated that the suspect neither consulted for the NLC nor had any communication, written or verbal, with him.
One insider mentioned that Ajaero became visibly frustrated at one point during the session, as the interrogators repeatedly addressed him by his name without acknowledging his official position as NLC President. “In a normal situation, the Police should have invited the NLC President directly, rather than issuing a formal summons. Their failure to do so raises questions about their true motives. Ultimately, the interaction felt more like a friendly chat than an interrogation,” the source said.
Ajaero Dismisses Allegations as Baseless
Upon his return to Labour House, Ajaero addressed journalists, describing the entire episode as a distraction based on unfounded allegations. He firmly stated that the labour movement could not be intimidated.
“Comrades, I want to thank everyone who has been supporting us over the last four days. The labour movement is worth every sacrifice because of its deep patriotism and unwavering commitment. We are one of the most patriotic organizations in Nigeria, and we will continue to uphold that legacy,” Ajaero declared.
He added, “I’ve gone to the Force Headquarters as a citizen and returned. This is part of the hazards of our job. Even during the time of Abacha, I was detained, alongside Falana. We will not be deterred. Our fight for the implementation of the minimum wage continues, as it has not yet been realized.”
Standing Firm Against Intimidation
Ajaero also asserted that the union would not be cowed by external pressures following his appearance at the IRT headquarters in Abuja. “We cannot be intimidated. The allegations against us are baseless, and we have nothing to hide,” he stated confidently.
He emphasized that his appearance before the Police was a matter of transparency, aimed at dispelling the unfounded accusations against him and the NLC. Ajaero reaffirmed the union’s commitment to fighting for workers’ welfare and remaining steadfast in the face of challenges. “Our resolve is stronger than ever. We will continue to champion the cause of workers across the nation, no matter the obstacles,” he concluded.
