Group Questions NLC President’s Alleged Deceptive Leadership

The Democracy Watch Initiative’s Strategic Communication team has raised concerns about the president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, saying his recent actions might not reflect strong leadership.

The group said Ajaero’s recent critiques of federal government policies seem insincere and may give a misleading impression of his commitment to addressing public issues.

Director of the group, Dr Tunji O. Bamidele, noted that Ajaero had previously declined to join the End-Bad-Governance protests led by civil society groups and political organisations, saying his reasons for not participating were unclear, and his absence during this critical time was notable.

Bamidele added that Ajaero’s current statements against the government’s policies, including the increase in fuel prices, appear to be a strategic move to regain public favour, saying this sudden interest in criticism contrasts with his previous silence when public support was crucial.

“Furthermore, Ajaero’s recent interactions with the police are being viewed by some as an attempt to shift focus onto his role in the NLC. However, it is suggested that the police’s interest in him is related to broader concerns rather than his NLC leadership,” he added.

The group believes that Ajaero’s actions may not align with effective leadership, especially during times of significant public need. It stressed that genuine leadership involves consistent and sincere advocacy for the people’s welfare, rather than reactive statements when it is convenient.