- NUEE threatens to shut down the power sector if Joe Ajaero is arrested on terrorism and other charges.
- The union condemns the government’s actions and warns of industrial action amid economic discontent.
The National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) has issued a severe warning, threatening to shut down the power sector if its General Secretary, Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), is arrested. The union’s warning follows an invitation from the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) for Ajaero to answer allegations including terrorism financing, cybercrime, subversion, criminal conspiracy, and treasonable felony.
On August 19, 2024, the IRT invited Ajaero to appear for questioning regarding these severe charges. The Deputy Commissioner of Police, IRT, sent a formal letter instructing Ajaero to report to the IRT office by August 20. The letter also warned of his arrest if he failed to comply.
NUEE’s Acting General Secretary, Igwebike Dominic, condemned what he described as politically motivated charges against Ajaero. The NUEE criticised the Federal Government for its handling of the situation, accusing it of using intimidation and harassment against labour leaders rather than addressing grievances related to recent events, including a controversial raid on the NLC National Headquarters.
Dominic characterised the government’s actions as a “blatant abuse” of the Nigerian Constitution and International Labour Organization conventions, specifically Conventions 87 and 98, protecting workers’ rights. He accused the government of attempting to suppress labour movements and free speech in Nigeria, labelling the approach as “childish and clueless.”
The NUEE warned that if Ajaero is arrested, the union would follow NLC directives and mobilise its members to withdraw their services. This move would significantly impact the power sector, which could face widespread disruptions if the threat is carried out.
Dominic also highlighted the broader discontent among Nigerians, driven by ongoing economic hardship, including hunger and hyperinflation. He urged the government to address these pressing issues directly rather than pursuing what he viewed as politically motivated actions against labour leaders.
The NUEE’s statement reflects mounting tension between labour organisations and the government amid growing public dissatisfaction with economic policies. The union’s threat to disrupt power supply underscores the potential for significant industrial action if Ajaero faces arrest.