Global Labour Leader Detained in Nigeria, Labour Congress Condemns "Brazen Act of Lawlessness"
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the detention of its President, Joe Ajaero, by the Nigerian government as a "brazen act of lawlessness and intimidation". Ajaero was seized without a legal warrant or formal instrument while on his way to the United Kingdom to attend a global workers’ gathering.
According to Benson Upah, Head of Public Relations for the NLC, agents of the Nigerian State took Ajaero into custody, and his whereabouts and health status are currently unknown. 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 rising wave of authoritarianism in Nigeria.
Ajaero was set to address the Trade Union Congress in the UK on behalf of Nigerian workers, discussing critical issues like workers’ rights, social justice, and economic fairness. His detention has sent shockwaves through the global labour movement, with the NLC vowing to protect workers’ rights and not be cowed by oppressive tactics.
The NLC has put its affiliates, state councils, and civil society allies on high alert and is currently holding a closed-door meeting to discuss the situation. The outcome of the meeting will be made public soon.
