The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has confirmed the arrest of its President, Joe Ajaero, leading to heightened tensions between the union and the government.
The arrest, which took place earlier this morning, has been met with strong condemnation from the NLC, which accuses the authorities of attempting to undermine its activities and suppress workers’ rights advocacy.
In a statement released shortly after the arrest, the NLC described the action as a politically motivated attack aimed at silencing the organization. The union has called for the immediate release of Ajaero, demanding that the authorities provide a clear explanation for his detention. The NLC’s leadership is mobilizing its members and allies, warning of potential protests and a significant showdown if their demands are not met.
“We wish to categorically state that Comrade Ajaero has been detained without any legal warrant or formal instrument. Joe Ajaero is not a fugitive. His detention is therefore a brazen act of lawlessness and intimidation, as he has not been declared wanted by any law enforcement body”.
“His detention is a brazen act of intimidation and completely unjustified under the laws of our nation. The mere contemplation of not just stopping a lawful citizen from travelling but also sequestering his freedom is an affront to our democratic and natural rights as a people and as workers,” the statement clarified.
The arrest of Ajaero comes at a time of heightened labour unrest in Nigeria, with various unions and worker groups expressing dissatisfaction with the current state of workers’ rights and conditions. The NLC’s response reflects its readiness to challenge government actions perceived as oppressive.
The resolution of this issue will be closely watched, with potential implications for labour relations and political stability in the country.
