NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, expressed his strong disapproval of the demolitions, which he asserted primarily targeted the less privileged, likening them to the tyranny of Hitler.
During an interview on AIT, Comrade Ajaero responded to questions, stating, “Shelter is a fundamental human need, as recognized in Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Yet, you demolish homes and tell people to disregard their needs, all the while claiming your 'master plan' is in your pocket. No one knows where this elusive master plan is. People, some of whom have invested their retirement savings into building their homes, suffer the consequences, and this cannot persist.”
Comrade Ajaero alleged a class-based war waged by Nigeria's elites against the impoverished, emphasizing that the country's political leadership must acknowledge the suffering of the less fortunate, who are struggling to make ends meet.
Regarding the manner in which the demolitions have been carried out, particularly affecting the underprivileged in Abuja, he argued, “These actions are plunging the masses into further poverty and are executed with a level of audacity reminiscent of Hitler's tyranny in Germany. This cannot continue, especially when it is impacting more workers. If you examine whose homes are being demolished, it's typically those individuals for whom affordable housing has not been provided.”
He continued, “Nigeria's commitment to welfare has eroded, even when it is constitutionally mandated. There is a lack of concern for transportation, access to water, electricity, and the payment of children's school fees. Even when workers contribute to housing programs, these funds are diverted elsewhere. This war cannot persist, and we are determined to stop these demolitions, which disproportionately affect the working class in Abuja.”
