I was unaware of the presence of the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in my state, I can never support violence – Hope Uzodinma extends apology

Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State has issued an apology for the assault on the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, in Imo State last week.

Suspected political thugs had violently attacked the NLC president last Wednesday during workers’ protests against unpaid salaries.

The NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) had called for a strike in Imo State, leading to the suspension of all flights to the state as preparations for the upcoming gubernatorial election on Saturday were in progress.

Addressing the issue during an appearance on Channels TV’s Politics Today, Uzodimma, who had initially criticized the NLC president for entering the state, expressed regret and extended an apology for the mistreatment.

“I was unaware of the presence of the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in my state. My initial response was to condemn the action. I have never been at odds with the labor union.

“The incident has nothing to do with my government. Whether Joe Ajaero is the president of NLC or not, I would not wish this to happen to any individual. I must apologize because it occurred in my state.

“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.

“Moving forward, I also hope he approaches matters in a more civilized manner. That was the essence of my point. For a native of my state to take to the streets without engaging me, without presenting the allegations to me.”