CurrentReport Blog There are strong indications that Nigeria may face widespread strikes and disruptions as workers consider crippling economic activities in protest of the arrest of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajaero. Ajaero was detained by the Department of State Services (DSS) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja while en route to the United Kingdom for a Trade Union Congress (TUC) meeting in Britain.
The NLC, placing all affiliate unions and Civil Society Organizations on high alert, is currently holding an emergency meeting to decide on the next course of action. As of press time, the NLC has been unable to determine Ajaero’s whereabouts, raising concerns about his safety.
In a statement issued by NLC Head of Information and Public Affairs, Benson Upah, the congress condemned Ajaero’s arrest as a sign of growing authoritarianism in Nigeria. The statement criticized the government’s disregard for the rule of law and its attempts to suppress opposition voices, particularly labor leaders advocating for workers’ rights.
The NLC has called for Ajaero’s immediate and unconditional release, while also urging the international community and human rights organizations to take note of Nigeria’s descent into undemocratic practices.
The NLC warned that it will not tolerate any form of intimidation against its leaders and workers and vowed to protect workers’ rights amid rising economic hardship and state oppression.
