The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has condemned the arrest of Joe Ajaero, president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
On Monday, Benson Upah, NLC spokesperson, said Ajaero was whisked away by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on his way to the UK for a conference,
Festus Osifo, TUC president, deacribed Ajaero’s arrest as “unjust” and a violation of his rights.
“The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has received with grave concern the news of the arrest of the President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) earlier today,” the statement reads.
“This unjust action represents a clear violation of the rights to freedom of association and expression, fundamental pillars in any democratic society.
“Congress, firmly condemns the arrest and calls for his immediate and unconditional release.
“This arrest sets a dangerous precedence that threatens not only the leadership of the Nigerian labour movement but also the voices of millions of working-class Nigerians who rely on unions to represent and protect their interests.”
Osifo added that the federal government should prioritise dialogue over harassment of citizens.
“It is imperative that the government respects the rule of law, democratic norms, and the legitimate rights of workers and their representatives. The labour movement has always stood for peaceful negotiations” he said.
“We, therefore, urge the Nigerian government to prioritize dialogue and reconciliation over harassment.
“We stand in solidarity with the NLC and reaffirm our commitment to defending the rights and dignity of Nigerian workers.”
The NLC has also alerted all its affiliates, state councils, and Nigerian workers to remain vigilant and on high alert.
The labour union described the arrest of its president, as a “brazen act of lawlessness and intimidation”.
