The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to conduct a thorough medical examination on its president, Joe Ajaero, following his detention by the Department of State Services (DSS).
The union also demanded the immediate return of Ajaero’s withheld travel documents.
Ajaero was arrested by DSS operatives on Monday morning at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja while preparing to board a flight to the United Kingdom for an official assignment.
According to a statement by NLC Deputy President Adewale Adeyanju, Ajaero was released around 11 p.m. after intense pressure from the NLC and a request issued by its National Administrative Council (NAC), which demanded his release by midnight.
The NLC expressed gratitude to Nigerians, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), affiliated groups, and the international community for their overwhelming support during what it described as the “unlawful arrest and detention” of its president.
The Congress strongly condemned Ajaero’s arrest, labelling it as a gross abuse of power and a direct attack on the rights of Nigerian workers and citizens.
It warned the government against taking further steps that could undermine the labour movement and stifle legitimate demands, including implementing the new National Minimum Wage.
The NLC also reiterated its call to release citizens detained for their involvement in the #EndBadGovernance protests and urged the government to cease the suppression of dissenting voices.
Additionally, the Congress called for the reversal of recent hikes in petrol and electricity tariffs.
“The NLC will not waver in its duty to defend the rights of workers, and we remain prepared to take all necessary actions to protect these rights and restore justice.
“The NEC of the NLC, which was proposed for today, has therefore been suspended to assess the situation and determine the next steps in our collective struggle.
“Together, we will overcome these challenges and secure a better future for all,” the NLC affirmed.
