The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has condemned the arrest of Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajaero, by the Department of State Security (DSS), stating that it sets a dangerous precedent for the labor movement in Nigeria.
In a statement released on Monday by TUC President Festus Osifo, the union demanded Ajaero’s immediate and unconditional release, highlighting that his arrest undermines fundamental democratic rights such as freedom of association and expression.
“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. This unjust action represents a clear violation of the rights to freedom of association and expression, fundamental pillars in any democratic society,” Osifo said.
TUC stressed that the arrest could have far-reaching implications, not just for the leadership of Nigeria’s labor movement, but for the millions of working-class Nigerians who depend on unions for protection and representation.
“It is imperative that the government respects the rule of law, democratic norms, and the legitimate rights of workers and their representatives. The labor movement has always stood for peaceful negotiations,” the statement read.
The TUC urged the Nigerian government to prioritize dialogue and reconciliation over harassment, reaffirming its solidarity with the NLC and its commitment to defending the rights of workers.
Following Ajaero’s arrest at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Monday, the NLC held an emergency meeting and asked its affiliated unions to be on high alert for potential nationwide strikes and protests.
Ajaero’s arrest comes just weeks after he was summoned by the Nigeria Police Force for questioning over allegations of terrorism financing.
