Finally, Imo State Gov, Uzodinma bows, apologises to Labour over attack

By allcitynews.ng

10 days after, Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma has finally succumbed, bowed to the fear of labour and apologise over the attacks on the leadership of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).

Apparently aware of the harm which may befall him and his regime if the planned picketing of the state by organised labour, which is just four days away is allowed to take place, Uzodinma quickly threw the garment of pride and egoism away and tendered an apology for the attacks.

The Governor, who perhaps is already  seeing the the handwriting on the wall with suspension of flight into the state few hours to the state election, tendered an apology for the assault on the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, in Imo State on Wednesday 1 November 2023.

Following the attacks and bodily harm on the NLC President, NLC and Trade Union Congress (TUC) had declared a strike in Imo State from 14 November 2023. The first step which was the suspension of all flights to the state as preparations for the gubernatorial election coming up on Saturday were underway. This first step showed him that labour meant business and that more tougher actions may come if the strike is allowed.

Speaking on the matter when he appeared on Channels TV’s Politics Today, Uzodimma, who had initially criticized the NLC president for entering the state, expressed regret and apologised for the maltreatment.

“I was unaware of the presence of the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in my state. My initial response was to condemn the action. I have never been at odds with the labour union.

“The incident has nothing to do with my government. Whether Joe Ajaero is the president of NLC or not, I would not wish this to happen to any individual. I must apologize because it occurred in my state.

“As a Christian who believes in God, I cannot support violence and would never advocate for it. Whatever transpired, leading to the assault on Joe Ajaero in my state, of which I was unaware, is regrettable, and both my government and I express remorse.

“Moving forward, I also hope he approaches matters in a more civilized manner. That was the essence of my point. For a native of my state to take to the streets without engaging me, without presenting the allegations to me.”

The NLC had directed aviation unions to blacklist the Imo airport and had also declared Uzodimma persona non-grata.

It would be recalled that Ajaero was attacked and brutalised by men suspected to be loyal to Uzodinma in connivance with operatives of the state Police command.

The Imo Police however in swift response, debunked the allegation, saying that it took Ajaero into protective custody after receiving warning of the of the planned mob action against the union’s leader.

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