The Odua Peoples Assembly (OPA) has lent its support to the Department of State Services (DSS) over the arrest of the Nigeria Labour Congress President, Mr. Joe Ajaero, saying that it is lawful and necessary.
A statement on Monday issued by Hon. Adeyemi Olamide Shola, Deputy Speaker of Odua Peoples Assembly, said Ajaero’s
arrest “is not only justified but crucial to safeguarding the integrity of our nation.
Shola said that claims by a certain civil society group that his detention will lead to anarchy are baseless, misleading, and an affront to the rule of law.
Shola questioned, “Since when does arresting a lawbreaker cause anarchy? Is the law not supreme?”
“We therefore declare as follows, Ajaero’s involvement in providing a hideout for a foreigner to finance violent protests as part of a plot to overthrow the democratically elected government crosses the line into treason.
“His actions not only threaten Nigeria’s security but undermine the very foundations of our democracy.
“How can anyone expect leniency for such a serious offence? His position as NLC Chairman does not place him above the law
“Much like other culprits already in detention, Ajaero must face the consequences of his actions.
“To suggest he should be spared implies that he is untouchable, and this is unacceptable.
“His arrest by the DSS is necessary, timely, and demonstrates that no one is beyond the reach of justice.
“Those behind this foiled foreign-backed coup attempt must all be brought to justice, no exceptions.
“We call on the DSS to intensify its investigations and place under surveillance all suspected accomplices to this undemocratic plot.
“Nigeria’s peace and democracy can not be compromised by individuals seeking to serve foreign interests and politicisation of labour matters destabilise our country.
“Justice must be swift, and those who dare violate the law of the land must face the full weight of the consequences.
“We at Oduaa Peoples Assembly call on all Nigerian men and women of good conscience to join the patriotic battle against reasonable elements, no matter how highly-placed.
“We insist that national stability is bigger than any individual and that the Rule of Law must not be compromised under our nation’s democratic space.
“We are appalled by the misguided attempt of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) President, Mr. Festus Osifo, to obstruct the investigation of Joe Ajaero’s treasonous activities.
“His claims that the DSS is targeting labour leaders are baseless and a desperate attempt to shield Ajaero from accountability.
“The DSS investigation has nothing to do with TUC or labour matters, but rather a legitimate probe into a plot to overthrow the government.
“Osifo’s interference is a clear indication that some labour leaders are more interested in protecting their own interests than upholding the law and national stability.
“We urge the DSS to ignore Osifo’s distractions and continue its thorough investigation, ensuring that all those involved in this heinous plot are brought to justice.”
