‘You Can’t Silence Ajaero’ – LP Chieftain Okorie Criticizes FG and Police

Hon. Linus Okorie, a prominent Labour Party (LP) figure, has criticized the federal government’s use of internal security and police forces against the National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero. Okorie, who previously represented Ohaozara, Onicha, and Ivo federal constituency in Ebonyi State and was the LP’s 2023/2024 Ebonyi South Senatorial candidate, expressed his disapproval of the recent actions targeting Ajaero.

In a statement released on Tuesday in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Okorie condemned the government’s approach, noting that it blurs the line between legal authority and political power. He warned that the use of police and security forces in such a manner could indicate a shift towards a “police state,” typically associated with authoritarian regimes rather than democratic systems.

Okorie recalled the recent national protests, which saw allegations of police brutality and fatalities, including claims by Amnesty International of 13 deaths on the first day. He highlighted concerns from notable figures and organizations, including the NLC and presidential candidates Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, about excessive force used by the police.

He also pointed out ongoing tensions within the LP and NLC, citing previous incidents such as police actions against the LP-NTC’s efforts to access the party’s national secretariat and a controversial raid on the NLC secretariat. These actions, Okorie argues, seem intended to undermine the NLC’s leadership and disrupt efforts to strengthen the LP as a viable political alternative.

The recent police summons for Ajaero, accusing him of serious crimes without clear prior accusations, adds to the concerns about potential political motives behind these moves. Okorie expressed skepticism about the fairness of such legal processes and emphasized the broader issue of ordinary Nigerians facing similar or worse treatment without the benefit of high-profile legal representation.

He praised Femi Falana, SAN, for offering legal defense to Ajaero and called for due process to be followed. Okorie concluded with a broader reflection on the rights of ordinary citizens and the need for transparent and fair treatment in legal and political matters.