The intricate relationship between governance, law enforcement, and civil society is often marked by both collaboration and tension. Recent events in Nigeria have put this relationship into sharp focus as the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, was summoned by the Nigerian police. This elicited a wave of reactions from various quarters, highlighting concerns surrounding democracy, civil rights, and the role of law enforcement in a democratic society.
The allegations against Ajaero, which include criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, treasonable felony, subversion, and cybercrime, have raised questions about the intent behind these actions and the implications for the labour movement in Nigeria. Each of these accusations carries weight and consequences. The charge of treasonable felony, for instance, can lead to severe legal repercussions in Nigeria, a country that has experienced its fair share of political instability and conflicts.
Meanwhile, accusations of funding terrorism are particularly damaging, not only to an individual’s reputation but also to their ability to mobilise support. The seriousness of the avowals raises concerns about whether they are based on credible evidence or if they are merely a political manoeuvre designed to stifle dissent and weaken the NLC.
In response to the police summons, the NLC has vehemently defended Ajaero, labelling the allegations as baseless. The Congress contends that this action is a calculated attempt to intimidate and harass both Ajaero and the NLC. They argue that the police’s actions are emblematic of a broader trend of victimisation of organisations and individuals that speak out against governmental policies, particularly those relating to labour rights and social justice.
Earlier, on August 8, 2024, the Nigerian police had stormed Labour House, headquarters of the NLC. The police claimed they were looking for an international terrorist who used the NLC building as his office. Nigerians were shocked when the police issued the NLC President an invitation to answer to charges of criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, treasonable felony, subversion and cyber crime.
Recently, the Department of State Services (DSS) apprehended the prominent labour leader as he was en route to participate in a conference taking place in the United Kingdom. At this conference, he was scheduled to present a paper. The unexpected arrest sparked widespread reactions and pressure from concerned Nigerians, who expressed their support for the labour leader and condemned the actions of the DSS. In response, the agency interrogated Ajaero and released him.
From every indication, the government may not cease its actions with just Ajaero; there is a possibility that they will target additional leaders within the labour movement who possess independent viewpoints. This could result in the arrest of other prominent figures who challenge the status quo. Furthermore, it is plausible that the umbrella unions, which represent a collective of workers and their interests, could face prohibition from operating. In such a scenario, the authorities might appoint their agents to oversee the management of these unions’ secretariats.
These strategies are reminiscent of tactics that were meticulously refined during periods of military rule, a time characterised by oppression and the silencing of dissent, which Nigerians actively resisted in their pursuit of democratic governance. The fight against such authoritarian practices is not just a memory; it serves as a reminder of the need to safeguard the democratic principles and freedoms that Nigerians have struggled to obtain.
While we call upon Ajaero and his legal representatives to actively engage with the relevant security authorities to facilitate a transparent investigation process, we implore Nigerians to advocate for fairness and justice by urging the law enforcement agencies to substantiate their claims against him with concrete evidence. The principle of innocent until proven guilty must be upheld, and any suspicions of politically-driven bias or victimisation are vehemently opposed.
In a democratic society, adherence to the rule of law and respect for fundamental human rights must be unwavering. Resorting to coercive tactics typically employed by the military has no place in a civil and just system. Therefore, we stand firm against any form of undue pressure or harassment aimed at individuals based on their political affiliations or beliefs. We must unite in safeguarding the integrity of our democratic institutions and ensuring that due process is followed in all legal proceedings.
Given that both the DSS and the conventional police have the authority to carry out legal arrests, it is necessary that such power be wielded with impartiality. It is of utmost importance that Ajaero, as well as any other individual, is accorded respect and courtesy in any engagement with the legal system. Citizens are equally expected to fulfil their responsibilities by facilitating and supporting thorough investigations.
Adhering to the law is mandatory, not discretionary.  Let Ajaero inform the police or the DSS about what he knows.  It is important for the police to comply with the rules too.  If they fail, Ajaero’s lawyers will not fail to claim his rights under the law. Democracy depends on checks and balances that represent the heart of due process.

Determined to make a difference in governance, the Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has signed an Executive Order aimed at the establishment of an investment agency. This initiative is poised to coordinate the growing number of enquiries and business interests expressed by local and foreign investors who now consider the state a destination of first choice. The Governor has endorsed Executive Order No. 002 of 2024 establishing the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency (RIPA), presented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dagogo Israel Iboroma, SAN.
The Governor explained that what he had just done was to give force to one of the recommendations in the report submitted to him by the committee that handled the organisation of the Rivers State Economic and Investment Summit in May. He said it was undisputed that the summit served as a veritable platform to open up the state for economic advancement, adding that the Investment Promotion Agency would be a one-stop-shop to handle all related activities seamlessly in the state.
Fubara said: “This will enable investors, when they come in; they won’t need to run around, and maybe, fall into wrong hands or associations that will want to rip them off their investment stakes. With this, they will have an agency that they could go to, liaise with and the agency will have the required answers to whatever it is that they will need to address concerns before it.”
It is common knowledge that Rivers State is rich in natural resources and has a thriving economy primarily driven by oil and gas. However, beyond these industries, there is an abundance of other untapped opportunities in agriculture, tourism, and technology. Yet, despite its wealth of resources, the state has faced numerous challenges such as infrastructural deficits, poor governance in the past, and an economy heavily reliant on oil. As a result, diversifying the economy has become obligatory.
This development is a significant step towards making Rivers State a premier investment destination, with the Agency expected to play a critical role in attracting and retaining businesses, creating jobs, and driving economic growth. Fubara’s action points to the fact that beyond organising the summit, his administration can live up to fulfilling its promise of making Rivers State great again, economically. Any wonder the Governor stated he was not going to end with the signing of the Executive Order alone but would drive it to a conclusive end to achieve the desired fulfilment that Rivers people expected.
The recent inauguration of RIPA’s board marks a watershed moment in the state’s economic trajectory. Fubara’s decision to set up the Agency reflects his administration’s commitment to reversing the economic decline that has plagued the state for years. By appointing a new board, the government aims to inject fresh ideas and perspectives into the establishment, promoting a culture of transparency, efficiency, and accountability.
Entrepreneurial drive is strong in our state, leading to the daily rise of small-scale enterprises and new entrepreneurs. In today’s world, aspiring business owners frequently face challenges like insufficient funding, limited access to information about available resources, bureaucratic obstacles, and a lack of supportive government policies. The current administration should acknowledge these challenges and be dedicated to stimulating a favourable investment climate.
While the Governor’s vision and the Agency’s efforts are critical, achieving sustainable economic transformation will require collective engagement from all stakeholders. The active participation of the community, local businesses, and civil society is essential for the realisation of these goals. Community involvement is pivotal in ensuring that the needs and aspirations of the populace are integrated into the economic policies and initiatives. Creating avenues for public participation not only empowers citizens but also nurtures a shared sense of responsibility towards the development of the state.
The role of the media cannot be understated in this collective effort. The media serves as a watchdog and an informer, ensuring that the government remains accountable and that citizens are aware of opportunities and challenges in the economic landscape. As with any ambitious vision, several challenges may block the path to economic transformation in the state. These challenges must be acknowledged and addressed to ensure that progress is sustainable. The government, alongside the Agency, must proactively identify the barriers and develop strategic solutions.
Corruption remains a vital hurdle in many sectors in Nigeria, and Rivers State is no exception. To combat this, the government must demonstrate unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability, ensuring that funds allocated for development are utilised effectively. Also, the state must prioritise infrastructure development, which is foundational to economic growth. By investing in modern infrastructure, the government can lay the groundwork for enhanced productivity and attract local and foreign investors, nourishing an environment conducive to economic development.
Fostering partnerships with international organisations and development agencies can provide valuable resources and expertise. Such partnerships can facilitate technology transfer, capacity building, and investment opportunities that enrich the local economy. Furthermore, the message of economic transformation must be communicated to all residents of the state. Building awareness and consensus around the vision for the state will galvanise support and encourage collective participation in the transformation endeavour.
Undeniably, Fubara’s leadership and vision have given Rivers people hope for a better economic future and his initiative has put the state on the path to realising its full potential. Its commitment to creating an investment-friendly environment is necessary to attract investors and stimulate economic growth. RIPA’s mandate to return Rivers State to its rightful place as an economically viable entity is a challenge that requires collective effort and support.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s decision to reintroduce the Rivers Neighbourhood Watch, also known as Rivers State Neighbourhood Safety Corps, after six years of its establishment, reflects the Governor’s dedication to the security of the residents of the state. The Neighbourhood Watch, which was established by the previous administration, serves as a community-based security organisation with a primary goal of boosting community safety, especially in addressing the prevalent issue of oil theft in the region.
Neighbourhood Safety Corps has been inactive or inadequately funded for approximately six years as a result of several administrative challenges. Governor Fubara recently convened a meeting with the leaders of the security outfit in a private setting, expressing a firm commitment to rejuvenate the organisation. This initiative is accompanied by assurances of improved assistance and incorporation into the state’s security framework.
The leader of the Corps, Wogbo Lawrence, expressed gratitude to the Governor for the initiative, emphasising the challenges the outfit faces in sustaining its operations with limited support. He mentioned that they had successfully kept about 1,150 personnel engaged throughout the 23 local government areas of the state. The Director-General of the agency, Mike Chukwuma, who is a retired Assistant Commissioner of Police and former experienced police public relations officer (PPRO) in Rivers State, also praised Fubara’s decision.
Governor Fubara’s actions exemplify a comprehensive approach to addressing local security concerns by actively involving communities, thereby establishing a potential model for state governments to interact with local residents on security issues. Nevertheless, the success of this initiative will hinge on its proper execution, adequate funding, and sustained support from the community in the long term.
Following the signing of the bill for the establishment of the agency into law by former Governor Nyesom Wike in March 2018, its complete implementation faced obstacles due to allegations from the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. The APC claimed that the security structure was intended to intimidate its members during the 2019 elections, leading to a prolonged legal dispute that was ultimately resolved in the Supreme Court.
The Tide highly commends the Governor for his efforts in revitalising the stagnant institution. If implemented, security will be accessible throughout the entire state. This initiative will facilitate the smooth operation of businesses for all residents. By promoting the establishment of individually designed security systems by states, the prevailing security issues plaguing the nation can be effectively eliminated.
Upon the outfit becoming fully operational, it is important that the state government expeditiously address the outstanding salaries owed to the employees by the previous administration. Resolving these unsettled obligations is essential not only for boosting the morale of the workforce but also for optimising operational efficiency. Unpaid salaries have the capacity to reduce productivity and increase discontent among employees, thereby jeopardising the overall efficacy of public services.
Like any conscientious organisation, the Rivers State Neighbourhood Safety Corps has clear objectives. The objectives are (a) gathering information about crime, crime in progress, suspicious activities and crime suspects away from other things; (b) making available such relevant information on crime, crime in progress; suspicious activities and crime suspects to the police or other security agencies that require it; (c) putting structures in place to ensure that hoodlums and cult groups do not have the opportunity to operate within the state.
Others include (d) undertaking routine motorised patrol day and night; (e) reducing the crime rate and ensuring that offenders are identified and made to account for their misdeeds; (f) following up on arrest of offenders to court and ensuring justice; (g) timely reporting of suspicious activities and crimes in progress to the police or other security agencies; (h) improving relationship between the police and the community as it concerns law enforcement.
Also, (i) contributing in maintaining community peace; (j) providing the police with relevant information that will enhance their understanding of how to effectively police the communities and; (k) assisting the police carry out any other lawful activities in maintaining law and order.
Indeed, the underlying objectives of this legislation are commendable as they reflect the desire for a more secure state. Proper execution holds the potential to offer a greater sense of protection to all individuals. However, Rivers people place a strong emphasis on the agency’s neutrality. There is a lasting concern that it could be misused against political opponents, a worry that has been present since its inception in 2018. Therefore, it will be vital to establish transparency and accountability in its undertakings to address these anxieties and cultivate a truly safe environment for all residents of the state.
Unlike the previous administration, there is necessity to effectively fund the enterprise to guarantee its sustainability. Without adequate resources, the organisation faces a risk of stagnation, which could lead to it becoming inactive once more. Strategic financial investment is obligatory for maintaining operational consistency, as well as for promoting innovation and expansion. Giving precedence to financial backing can establish a strong foundation that enables the enterprise to prosper, overcome obstacles, and ultimately accomplish its mission more efficiently in a continuously changing environment.
Through the implementation of the Neighbourhood Watch programme, it is anticipated that the obstacles currently encountered by law enforcement agencies in the state will be alleviated. This initiative aims to address concerns like delayed police responses to emergencies and mishandling of information, ultimately leading to improved public safety. The outfit is expected to generate employment opportunities for the youth, foster stronger relationships, respect, and trust between the organisation and community members. Residents will feel more actively involved in crime prevention and management. Rivers people should rally behind the Governor in actualising this laudable project.