CHRICED Faults Allegation of Isa Tijjani Against NLC Leadership, Urge NLC to Remain Focused

The Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED) expresses its disappointment with the statement made by Comrade Isa Tijjani, the former Vice President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), accusing the current President of the NLC, Comrade Joe Ajaero, of “alleged moves to plunge Nigeria into economic and political crisis using his excessive strike actions”. We find this statement disturbing, unkind and lacking compassion, especially coming from a former labor official. It appears to be an attempt to discredit a courageous leader who has dedicated his life to fighting for the suffering masses of Nigeria.

In addition to labeling Comrade Ajaero, Isa Tijjani failed to provide any concrete evidence of positive steps taken by the government of President Tinubu to alleviate the hardships faced by the Nigerian people. Where was Comrade Isa when the price of petrol was raised from N180 per litre to N650 per litre? Where was he when the value of the Naira suddenly plummeted from N650/$ to N1,700? Does Isa Tijjani realize that people are dying every day due to lack of food, medicine, water, electricity, and other basic necessities, all caused by the poor and confused economic policies of the Tinubu administration? Where was Isa Tijjani when President Tinubu allocated over N68 billion for the purchase of SUV cars for members of the National Assembly, N1.6 billion for his wife’s cars, and several additional billions for the renovation of the president and vice president’s residences?

The former leader of the NLC must be living on a different planet to make baseless accusations against Comrade Ajaero and the NLC leadership for demanding a minimum wage of N450,000, which is equivalent to $270. It is astonishing that someone who has never spoken out against the rampant corruption, excessive government spending, and oppressive economic policies would suddenly wake up and accuse the NLC president of attempting to destabilize Nigeria through strike actions. In fact, Nigerians require more strikes and protests as that seems to be the only language this stubborn and inhumane administration understands.

CHRICED strongly urge Comrade Joe Ajaero and his team at the NLC not to succumb to the senseless ramblings of a few renegades and government apologists, but to continue their struggle for the emancipation of the suffering masses of Nigeria. The NLC leadership should be focused by building supporting robust civil society networks and grassroots organizations across the country to fortify their efforts in championing the economic rights of the people.

Solidarity forever!