The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to conduct thorough medical checks on its President, Joe Ajaero, following his release from detention by the Department of State Services (DSS). Ajaero was arrested at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja while on his way to the United Kingdom for a conference on workers’ rights and social justice.
NLC Deputy President, Prince Adewale Adeyanju, expressed gratitude to Nigerians, civil society groups, affiliate unions, and the international community for their support during what he described as Ajaero’s “illegal arrest and detention.” Adeyanju emphasized the importance of standing together in defense of justice and workers’ rights.
Ajaero was released after significant pressure from the NLC and adherence to the demands of the National Administrative Council (NAC). The NLC remains watchful and will ensure that medical checks are conducted to confirm that Ajaero’s health was not compromised during his detention.
The NLC condemned the arrest, calling it a “reckless abuse of power,” and reaffirmed its commitment to opposing oppression, intimidation, and lawlessness. The organization believes that the attack on its leader is an attack on the fundamental rights of all Nigerian workers and citizens.
Furthermore, the NLC is demanding the release of individuals detained for participating in the #EndBadGovernance protest, an end to the crackdown on dissenting voices, and a reversal of the recent increases in petrol and electricity tariffs. The organization is also pushing for the immediate implementation of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act.
