LP calls for removal of Imo police commissioner over assault on Ajaero

The Labour Party (LP) has called for the removal of the commissioner of police in Imo state over an assault on Joe Ajaero, president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).

On Wednesday, Ajaero was reportedly picked  up from the Imo council secretariat of the NLC in Owerri by heavily armed police officers.

The NLC said Ajaero was beaten and blindfolded immediately after he was arrested by security operatives.

However, the Imo police command said Ajaero was not arrested but was taken into protective custody to avoid being lynched by a mob.

Reacting, the LP, in a statement on Friday by Obiora Ifoh, national publicity secretary of the party, condemned the attack on Ajaero.

“It has been nearly three days after the attack, brutalisation, battering and humiliation of Nigeria Labour Congress’ President, Comrade Joe Ajaero allegedly by the men of Nigerian Police, goons of the Imo state governor and other agents of the government in what appears to be the lowest moment in government/workers relationship,” the statement reads.

“The Federal Government and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress, APC have kept mute even as virtually all Nigerians and international community are all united in condemnation of the beastial act.

“The Labour Party had a few months ago petitioned the Chairman, Police Service Commission on the continued stay in office and discharge of duties of the present Commissioner of Police in Imo state who once held sway of the Adamawa State Police Command.

“Even against the directive of the Commission, that the CP be redeployed immediately, he has blatantly disregarded the order.

“A particular case that readily comes to mind is the invasion and destruction of our party secretariat by known thugs and agents of the state government while the police looked away.

“These same faces have also been fingered in the mob attack on Comrade Ajaero. They are still walking the street free with the government giving them the needed defence.

“We are using this medium to call on the Police hierarchy to immediately rejig the entire police structure in Imo state.”