From George Onyejiuwa, Owerri
The PDP Gubernatorial candidate in Imo State, Senator Samuel Anyanwu has described as an affront the arrest of the President of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, to the people of the Imo state .
This is as he has accused the Imo state Governor of high – handedness, harassment and intimidation against the people and the Labour movement in the state since he assumed office in 15 January, 2020.
Senator Anyanwu,said that credible information obtained shortly after the incident indicated that the only offense purportedly committed by the NLC President, Joe Ajaero is for leading a genuine protest against Uzodimma’s government for owing workers and Pensioners over 42 months arrears.
“Our investigation further revealed that the workers were protesting against the declaration of over 4000 civil servants in the state as ghost workers.” He said.
In a statement by Mr Ikenna Onuoha , Director, Media/Publicity, SamJones governorship campaign reads: “ As a responsible and responsive campaign council championing a genuine cause for the people of the state, it is condemnable for Uzodinma to order for the abduction of Comrade Ajaero, in a state he is a bonafide citizen. The question is, “what is Uzodinma afraid of that he wants to dominate everywhere? If Uzodinma does not want workers to protest against non payment of their statutory entitlements, it is ideal for him to clear all the arrears to enable them provide for their families.
It is worthy to note that under Uzodinma as Governor, intimidation, harassment, abuse of human rights and illegal arrest have taken a center stage in Imo state. Often times, Uzodinma had paid lip service to all these complaints and never cared to respect Imo workers. It is absurd and unwarranted.
“ Our campaign council is worried that Imo state in the last three and half years has been on the bad news. As Imo citizens, it is time for the people to take their state back”.
While urging Imo people especially, workers to remain calm and law abiding, as all issues regarding payment of their areas would be the first priority of the incoming PDP administration in the state.