The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has condemned the arrest of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajaero, by the Department of State Services (DSS) on Monday. Ajaero was reportedly detained while en route to the United Kingdom.
In a statement signed by TUC President, Festus Osifo, the Congress described the arrest as a violation of fundamental democratic rights, including freedom of association and expression.
The statement read, “The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) expresses grave concern over the arrest of the NLC President today. This unjust action is a clear breach of the rights to freedom of association and expression, which are crucial to any democratic society.”
TUC called for Ajaero’s immediate and unconditional release, warning that the arrest sets a dangerous precedent that could undermine the labour movement and the voices of millions of Nigerian workers.
The TUC urged the government to prioritize peaceful dialogue and respect for the rule of law, reaffirming its solidarity with the NLC and its commitment to defending workers’ rights across Nigeria.
