Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, has issued an apology for the assault on the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress ,NLC, Comrade Joe Ajaero, during last week’s protests in the state.
The attack, carried out by suspected political thugs, occurred amid demonstrations by workers over unpaid salaries, leading to a strike declared by the NLC and the Trade Union Congress.
Initially critical of Ajaero, Governor Uzodinma expressed regret and offered an apology during an appearance on Channels TV’s Politics Today.
He clarified that he was unaware of the NLC president’s presence in the state at the time of the incident.
“I was unaware of the presence of the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress in my State. My initial response was to condemn the action. I have never been at odds with the labor union,” Uzodinma stated.
The assault on Joe Ajaero sparked tensions, resulting in the suspension of flights to Imo State ahead of the gubernatorial election. Governor Uzodinma, acknowledging the regrettable incident, emphasized his commitment to non-violence and apologized for the maltreatment.
“As a Christian who believes in God, I cannot support violence and would never advocate for it. Whatever transpired, leading to the assault on Joe Ajaero in my State, of which I was unaware, is regrettable, and both my government and I express remorse,” he added.
Looking ahead, Governor Uzodinma hoped for a more civilized approach to addressing concerns, emphasizing the need for dialogue rather than confrontations. The NLC had responded to the incident by directing aviation unions to blacklist the Imo airport and declaring Governor Uzodinma persona non-grata.
Crediblenews.ng
