In every society, the government is responsible for protecting its citizens and ensuring their well-being. Carrying out these responsibilities involves various institutions like the police, military, DSS (Department of State Services), and others. These bodies are given power by the law to make sure everything runs smoothly and according to the rules.
For those who have studied law or government, it’s clear that while the government has to protect its people, citizens also have the duty to respect and follow the law. This includes obeying the constitution and even serving in the military if required. The law is above everyone, and no one is exempt from its demands. If a court summons a person, or if a government agency like the police or DSS invites someone, it is their responsibility to respond.
Joe Ajaero, who is a well-known labor leader and the president of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), has been in the spotlight for his actions over the past few months. Unfortunately, not always for the right reasons. In August 2024, the Inspector General (IG) of the Police invited him, but Ajaero refused to honor the invitation until an arrest warrant was issued. This month, the DSS invited him for questioning, and again, he declined to cooperate.
In Nigeria, it has become somewhat common for individuals seeking political recognition to challenge government authorities, knowing that their names will be all over the media. Some engage in this kind of behavior to trigger public attention or create media drama.
Ajaero is a respected leader, representing millions of Nigerian workers. As someone in such an important position, it’s expected that he should respect the laws and institutions of the country. If the DSS invited him for a meeting, the most responsible thing would have been to inform his team at the NLC and attend the meeting, even if accompanied by his colleagues. Refusing to comply with the invitation raises questions about his leadership and attitude toward the law.
As the saying goes, "If you don’t respect the law, you can’t avoid its consequences." Leaders entrusted with positions of authority should be the first to obey and respect the law, rather than challenge it unnecessarily. From this perspective, Ajaero’s arrest by the DSS after his refusal to honor their invitation seems justified. The law exists to maintain order, and timely actions prevent bigger problems later on.
A word of caution: those who lead must set the right example by upholding the law.
Jonathan Emekuku