The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to conduct comprehensive medical checks on its President, Joe Ajaero, following his release from detention by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Ajaero was arrested and detained at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja while en-route to the United Kingdom to attend a conference on workers’ rights and social justice.
In a statement, NLC Deputy President Prince Adewale Adeyanju expressed gratitude to Nigerians, civil society organizations, affiliates, and the international community for their support during Ajaero’s “illegal arrest and detention.” The statement emphasized the importance of collective action in defense of justice and workers’ rights.
Ajaero’s release came after intense pressure from the NLC and compliance with the demands of the National Administrative Council (NAC). The NLC remains vigilant and will conduct medical checks to ensure Ajaero’s health has not been compromised.
The NLC condemned the arrest and detention as a “reckless abuse of power” and reaffirmed its commitment to standing against oppression, intimidation, and lawlessness. The organization views the attack on its leadership as an assault on the fundamental rights of all Nigerian workers and citizens.
The NLC demands the release of citizens detained for participating in the #EndBadGovernance protest, an end to the clampdown on popular voices, and the reversal of hikes in petrol and electricity tariffs. The organization also calls for the immediate implementation of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act.
The NLC has suspended its National Executive Council meeting to assess the situation and determine next steps in its collective struggle. The organization urges Nigerians, affiliates, and the international community to remain steadfast and vigilant in the struggle for justice and workers’ rights.
