NSA Reveals Arrest of Suspected Attackers of NLC President, Urges Strike Call-Off

In a recent development, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, has called upon the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Unions Congress (TUC) to halt their two-day-old strike. This plea follows the disturbing attack on NLC President, Mr Joe Ajaero, in Owerri, Imo State, on November 1.

Mr. Ribadu expressed deep concern about the ongoing strike, highlighting its potential ramifications on the well-being of Nigerians and its broader impact on economic, security, and other strategic national interests. The National Security Adviser issued a statement through Mr. Zakari Mijinyawa, the Head of Strategic Communication at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

Ribadu, acknowledging his prompt intervention upon learning about Ajaero’s ordeal, emphasized ONSA’s condemnation of the attack. He underscored the incident’s contradiction to the rule of law and the principles of freedom of association and expression endorsed by President Bola Tinubu and his administration.

As a consequence of the Owerri incident, Ribadu disclosed that relevant authorities received a directive to conduct a thorough investigation. Current updates indicate that arrests have been made, and the outcomes of the investigation will be disclosed to the public upon completion.

“The Federal Government, through ONSA, therefore appeals to the labour leadership to call off the strike and allow the ongoing dialogue to be exhausted,” Mr. Ribadu stated in the release.