Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has made some comments about Lamidi Apapa, the Factional Chairman of the Labour Party, linking him to past positions within the NLC and NUPENG, a tanker driver's union. In an interview with The SUN, Ajaero disclosed that Apapa previously served as an NLC State Chairman in Oyo state and was affiliated with NUPENG as a tanker driver. He highlighted the NLC's practice of allowing former labour leaders to participate in the administration of the Labour Party, citing Apapa's role as deputy Chairman within the party.
Ajaero clarified that the NLC has not intervened in the management of the Labour Party nor questioned its financial operations. He recounted his involvement in a situation where Apapa attempted to seize control of the party, advocating instead for a proper National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting to determine the acting Chairman. Ajaero emphasized that the NLC President or General Secretary cannot directly manage the Labour Party, hence the reliance on retired or former labor leaders to oversee its affairs.
Addressing the composition of the Labour Party's executive, Ajaero noted a lack of representation from current NLC leadership within its ranks. He explained the rationale behind engaging retired or former labor leaders to run the party, emphasizing the need for experienced individuals familiar with the labor movement's dynamics. While acknowledging the NLC's role in the formation of the Labour Party, Ajaero stressed that this did not equate to exclusive administrative control by the NLC or Trade Union Congress (TUC).
Contrary to assuming direct control over the Labour Party, Ajaero clarified that neither the NLC nor its members have sought to dominate its administration. He emphasized that their engagement with the party has been devoid of interference, allowing the Labour Party autonomy in its decision-making processes. Ajaero recounted a specific incident involving Apapa's attempt to seize control, highlighting his resistance to such unilateral actions and advocacy for democratic decision-making within the party.
Hear him: "The other person that is forming a faction, Lamidi Apapa was the NLC State Chairman in Oyo State, he was a tanker driver belonging to NUPENG. Now, we are not saying that the Labour Party was formed by NLC and TUC. It was formed by NLC but since it is Labour, we can run it together. And we didn't say because it is Labour Party, it should be administered by us. None of us has gone there to drink pure water. We have not been asked them, how are you spending your money?".