The arrest of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) president Joe Ajaero is still whipping up reactions, with the latest from the Trade Union Congress (TUC).
In fact, the TUC has slammed the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government over the arrest.
Ajaero’s trouble started on Monday, September 9.
The NLC president was on his was to the United Kingdom for a conference.
However, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) nabbed Ajaero.
Reacting in a statement to journalists, TUC National President, Festus Osifo, said that the arrest of the NLC President is an unjust action.
To him, it represents a clear violation of the rights to freedom of association and expression.
Osifo, via the statement, called for Joe Ajaero’s immediate and unconditional release.
The statement reads: “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.”
Also Read: Real Reason DSS Arrested NLC President Joe Ajaero
“Congress, firmly condemns the arrest and calls for his immediate and unconditional release.
This arrest sets a dangerous precedence that threatens not only the leadership of the Nigerian labour movement but also the voices of millions of working-class Nigerians who rely on unions to represent and protect their interests.
“It is imperative that the government respects the rule of law, democratic norms, and the legitimate rights of workers and their representatives.
The labour movement has always stood for peaceful negotiations.
“We, therefore, urge the Nigerian government to prioritize dialogue and reconciliation over harassment.
We stand in solidarity with the NLC and reaffirm our commitment to defending the rights and dignity of Nigerian workers.”
