The National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) has issued a strong warning of a potential shutdown of the power sector if Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), is arrested.
The arrest is being sought by the Nigerian Police Force’s Intelligence Response Team over serious allegations, including criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, and treasonable felony.
NUEE’s Acting General Secretary, Igwebike Dominic, condemned what they see as politically motivated charges and harassment against Ajaero. They accused the government of attempting to suppress labor and free speech through intimidation, rather than addressing grievances openly. The union expressed that such actions undermine democratic values and violate both national and international labor rights.
NUEE has urged its members to prepare for a strike if Ajaero is detained and has called on the government to act cautiously, given the current economic hardships faced by Nigerians.