The Nigerian government, through Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has criticized the organized Labour over a strike declared in Imo State and a nationwide strike planned for November 14 following an attack on the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, in Owerri. Keyamo accused the NLC and Trade Union Congress of politicizing the incident and warned against allowing politics to destroy the labor movement in the country. The strike disrupted Owerri-bound flights at Lagos and Abuja airports.
In response, Keyamo stated that the Ministry of Aviation was not involved in the alleged maltreatment of the NLC leader and emphasized that targeting aviation would not resolve the issue. He urged the labor unions not to bring politics into aviation and warned of consequences if they did.
Additionally, the military high command revealed it had uncovered a plan by some individuals to wear military uniforms and disrupt elections in areas where elections were scheduled, including Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi States. The military warned against such actions and promised “injurious consequences” for those involved.
In preparation for the off-cycle elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) urged the Federal Government and organized Labor to settle their differences through dialogue. INEC assured that the governorship elections in Imo State would proceed as scheduled, despite the strike, and disclosed that sensitive materials had been delivered to the respective states.
The Department of State Services (DSS) also cautioned against comments intended to cause disharmony in the country and urged supporters and politicians to shun acts that could undermine the peaceful conduct of the election.
Furthermore, the police authorities posted new personnel ahead of the elections, and security measures were intensified in Bayelsa, particularly in volatile areas. The Deputy Inspector-General of Police supervising the South-South zone assured of a commitment to a free and fair electoral process.
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State denied supporting the attack on NLC President Joe Ajaero, stating that Ajaero was pursuing his personal interest and driving a program to give an advantage to the Labour Party in Imo State. Uzodimma emphasized that the government had not met or discussed with Ajaero, and there was no reason to encourage an assault on him.
These developments highlight the complex intersection of labor issues, politics, and security concerns in Nigeria, particularly in the context of the upcoming elections.