The Odua Peoples Assembly (OPA) has expressed support for the Department of State Services (DSS) in its investigation into the arrest of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) president Joe Ajaero.
In a statement, the Deputy Speaker of the Odua Peoples Assembly, Hon. Adeyemi Olamide Shola, said his arrest is not only justified but crucial to safeguarding the integrity of our nation. He added that claims by a specific civil society group that his detention would lead to anarchy are baseless, misleading, and an affront to the rule of law.
Deputy Speaker of the Odua Peoples Assembly, Hon. Adeyemi Olamide Shola, questioned, “Since when does arresting a lawbreaker cause anarchy? Is the law not supreme?”
The statement reads, “We therefore declare as follows, Ajaero’s involvement in providing a hideout for a foreigner to finance violent protests as part of a plot to overthrow the democratically elected government crosses the line into treason.
“His actions not only threaten Nigeria’s security but undermine the very foundations of our democracy. How can anyone expect leniency for such a serious offence? His position as NLC Chairman does not place him above the law.
“Much like other culprits already in detention, Ajaero must face the consequences of his actions. To suggest he should be spared implies that he is untouchable, which is unacceptable. His arrest by the DSS is necessary and timely and demonstrates that no one is beyond the reach of justice. Those behind this foiled foreign-backed coup attempt must all be brought to justice, with no exceptions,“ the group said.
The group said, “We call on the DSS to intensify its investigations and place all suspected accomplices to this undemocratic plot under surveillance. Nigeria’s peace and democracy cannot be compromised by individuals seeking to serve foreign interests and politicising labour matters to destabilize our country.
“Justice must be swift, and those who dare violate the law of the land must face the total weight of the consequences.
“We at Odua People‘s Assembly call on all Nigerian men and women of good conscience to join the patriotic battle against reasonable elements, no matter how highly placed. We insist that national stability is bigger than any individual and that the Rule of Law must not be compromised under our nation‘s democratic space.”
The group said it is appalled by the misguided attempt of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) President, Mr Festus Osifo, to obstruct the investigation of Joe Ajaero‘s treasonous activities, saying his claims that the DSS is targeting labour leaders are baseless and a desperate attempt to shield Ajaero from accountability.
“The DSS investigation has nothing to do with TUC or labour matters, but rather a legitimate probe into a plot to overthrow the government. Osifo‘s interference clearly indicates that some labour leaders are more interested in protecting their interests than upholding the law and national stability.
We urge the DSS to ignore Osifo‘s distractions and continue its thorough investigation, ensuring that all those involved in this heinous plot are brought to justice,” the statement reads.
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