A photo of Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) President Joe Ajaero posing with Attan Achonu, the Labour Party’s governorship candidate in Imo State, has caused a stir online, with many accusing Ajaero of political partisanship.
The controversy comes on the heels of last week’s brutal assault on Ajaero, which has further strained relations between the NLC and the Imo State government.
The NLC, in a statement, alleged that Ajaero was “beaten and blindfolded” immediately after being detained by security operatives. The union further stated that Ajaero’s personal belongings, including his phones, were confiscated and have not been returned.
However, the Imo State Police command countered the NLC’s claims, asserting that Ajaero was not arrested but rather taken into protective custody to shield him from a potential mob attack.
In response to the attack on Ajaero and the federal government’s alleged failure to implement an agreement, the leadership of the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) jointly ordered their members to embark on a nationwide strike commencing on November 14.
A total shutdown of work in Imo was also ordered. The labour has said it is not necessary that election be held in the state as scheduled on November 11.