In a recent development, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has issued a formal apology to organized labour following the assault on Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), during a protest in Owerri, Imo State, on November 1.
Ajaero, leading a demonstration, faced severe beatings and was held in detention for an extended period. In response, the labour union issued an ultimatum to the government, demanding the apprehension of those responsible for the attack, with a nationwide strike looming if their demands went unmet.
Despite government attempts to obtain a court order restraining the labour action, the nationwide strike commenced on Monday, causing widespread disruptions.
In a statement released by the Head of Strategic Communications in the Office of the National Security Adviser, Zakari U Mijinyawa, Ribadu conveyed the government’s regret over the Imo incident. He strongly condemned the assault, emphasizing that it violated the principles of the rule of law and the freedoms of association and expression endorsed by President Tinubu and his administration.
Moreover, Ribadu urged the labour movement to reconsider its stance on the ongoing strike, revealing that the attackers of Ajaero had been apprehended, and investigations were already underway.
The plea for a resolution comes as the government strives to address the concerns raised by the labour union and restore normalcy to the nation’s activities.