National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu announced the arrest of some political thugs over the attack on the National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero.

Ajaero was attacked by suspected political thugs in Owerri, Imo State capital on November 1, 2023, while workers in the state were protesting over unpaid salaries.

The attack sparked outrage among labour unions, leading to the declaration of a nationwide strike by the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).

In a statement released on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, Ribadu condemned the attack.

He said it is "against the rule of law and the principles of freedom of association and expression subscribed to by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration."

Ribadu further said that the Federal Government will never condone such an act.

Ribadu said that relevant authorities were directed to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the assault and bring to book the culprits.

He added that the outcome of the investigation will be made public as soon as it is concluded.

The National Security Adviser also urged organized labour to halt the ongoing nationwide strike.

In his appeal, he said he's "particularly worried about the implications of the strike action on the livelihood of ordinary Nigerians."

He further expressed concerns about "its potential impact on economic security and other strategic national interests."

The nationwide strike has had a significant impact on the Nigerian economy, with schools, banks, and hospitals shutting down their operations.

However, the labour unions have vowed to continue the strike until their demands are met.