Workers in Nigeria’s telecommunications and electricity sectors have threatened to shut down the National grid and telecom services from midnight on Wednesday if Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President Joe Ajaero is arrested.
This threat follows a letter from the Nigeria Police Force summoning Ajaero for questioning regarding allegations of terrorism financing.
In response, the General Secretaries of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) and the National Union of Postal and Telecommunications Employees (NUPTE) issued notices stating that if Ajaero or any other labor leader is arrested, workers would down tools immediately.
The unions’ stance is part of a broader warning by the NLC, which has vowed to embark on a nationwide strike should the arrest occur.
This development raises concerns about potential disruptions to Nigeria’s economy, as the electricity and telecom sectors are crucial. Previously, a blackout occurred on June 3 when the National grid was shut down during a workers’ strike.
Senator Shehu Sani described the allegations against Ajaero as “strange and unfortunate,” reflecting widespread concern over the situation. The NLC President has indicated he will honor the police’s invitation on Wednesday, August 29.
