The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) held an emergency meeting in Abuja on Monday in response to the arrest and detention of its President, Joe Ajaero.
The Matrix reports that Ajaero was detained at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, while en route to the United Kingdom for an official meeting.
The resolution from the NLC’s emergency meeting calls for Ajaero’s “immediate and unconditional release” by midnight tonight (Monday).
The union also demands the prompt reversal of the recent fuel price increase to N617 per litre.
READ ALSO: NLC Calls for Immediate Reversal of Fuel and Electricity Price Hikes
The NLC has issued a red alert to all its affiliates, state councils, civil society partners, and the general public. Additionally, the NLC has scheduled an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting for 9:00 am on Tuesday, September 10, 2024.
Meanwhile, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) also demanded the unconditional release of the national President of its sister union.
In a statement signed by TUC President Festus Osifo, the Congress condemned Ajaero’s arrest, describing it as an unjust violation of the fundamental rights to freedom of association and expression, which are essential in any democratic society.
Osifo emphasized that the TUC “strongly condemns the arrest” and calls for Ajaero’s immediate and unconditional release.
READ ALSO: NLC In A’Ibom Warns Workers Against Strike
“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.”
