By Sabiu Abdullahi
Imo State witnessed increased tensions as Joe Ajaero, the National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), was reportedly arrested by Nigeria Police Force operatives in Owerri on Wednesday.
Ajaero was taken into custody at the NLC state council secretariat, according to Benson Upah, the Head of Information at NLC, and subsequently transported to an undisclosed location.
This development followed the NLC’s announcement of an impending total strike in Imo State, set to commence on November 1, 2023.
Ajaero had accused Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma of neglecting workers’ welfare and violating their rights.
He highlighted several issues, including prolonged non-payment of salaries, the wrongful categorization of workers and pensioners as ghost beneficiaries, and non-compliance with the national minimum wage.
During a press briefing held on Sunday, Ajaero criticised the state government’s refusal to honour past agreements and its resistance to engaging in social dialogue and collective bargaining.
He underscored the grave consequences, citing reports of workers losing their lives due to the alleged lack of salary payments.
The arrest of Ajaero has intensified the labour dispute, raising concerns about the ongoing situation in Imo State.
The NLC and its members continue to demand fair treatment and the fulfilment of workers’ rights.
As the state government faces mounting pressure to address these grievances, the labour unrest in Imo State remains a cause for growing apprehension and scrutiny.