The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has commenced a closed-door meeting following the arrest and detention of the President of the Congress, Joe Ajaero, by the Nigerian government while on his way to the United Kingdom to attend a global workers’ gathering.
The Head of Public Relations of NLC, Benson Upah, confirmed this development in an interview with Punch on Monday.
According to Upah, agents of the Nigerian State seized Ajaero without a legal warrant or formal instrument, and his whereabouts and health status are currently unknown.
Naturenex had earlier reported that the labour union had condemned the arrest of their leader, describing the action as a “brazen act of lawlessness and intimidation”.
NLC, in its reaction, demanded Ajaero’s immediate and unconditional release.
Upah said, “The Congress has also called 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.
Upah said, “The NLC has put its affiliates, state councils, and civil society allies on high alert and vowed to protect workers’ rights and not be cowed by oppressive tactics.
“The Congress is currently holding a closed-door meeting to discuss the situation, and the outcome will be made public soon.”
