The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has swiftly responded to the arrest of its President, Joe Ajaero, by the Nigerian government, denouncing the move as a “brazen act of lawlessness and intimidation.”
Ajaero was detained without a warrant or formal instrument while en route to the United Kingdom to attend a global workers’ gathering.
The NLC has demanded Ajaero’s immediate and unconditional release, calling on the international community, human rights organizations, and democracy advocates to take note of the escalating authoritarianism in Nigeria. The Congress has put its affiliates, state councils, and civil society allies on high alert, vowing to protect workers’ rights and resist oppressive tactics.
An emergency closed-door meeting is currently underway to discuss the situation, with the outcome to be made public soon.
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Ajaero’s arrest has sparked widespread concern, as he was set to address critical issues like workers’ rights, social justice, and economic fairness at the Trade Union Congress in the UK.
The NLC’s swift response highlights the growing tensions between the government and labor unions, with the Congress determined to defend workers’ rights and resist authoritarianism.
