The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, says investigation has begun into the assault on Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and suspects have been arrested.
Ajaero was attacked in Imo State while leading a protest against alleged anti-labour practices by the Governor Hope Uzodimma-led administration, prompting a nationwide strike by the labor union seeking justice.
The President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Festus Osifo, had called on the NSA to lead the investigation during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily program.
Shortly after Osifo's statement, the NSA responded, expressing concern over the matter.
In a statement released by the Head of Strategic Communication in the NSA Office, Zakari Mijinyawa, Ribadu conveyed regret for the incident, condemning it as a violation of the rule of law and the principles of freedom of association and expression upheld by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration.
The NSA affirmed that the Federal Government would not tolerate such acts and directed relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation, with some arrests already made. The outcome of the investigation will be made public once concluded.
Furthermore, the Federal Government, through the Office of the NSA, appealed to the labor leadership to call off the ongoing strike action and allow the dialogue process to be exhausted.
