The Department of State Services (DSS) has released the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, on administrative bail. This follows his arrest earlier on Monday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, while on his way to the United Kingdom for an official engagement.
Pro-democracy activist and presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore, announced Ajaero’s release in a tweet on Monday night.
Ajaero’s arrest had sparked widespread condemnation from numerous organisations, civil society groups, activists, and prominent individuals, who demanded his immediate release.
The NLC itself condemned the arrest and called for Ajaero’s prompt and unconditional release. In a statement issued on Monday evening, the NLC’s National Administrative Council, led by Deputy President Adeyanju Adewale, described Ajaero’s detention as “brazen and illegal” and a clear violation of workers’ rights and democratic values.
The NLC statement further emphasized the need for Ajaero’s release, highlighting the importance of upholding democratic principles and protecting workers’ rights.
Ajaero’s release on administrative bail is seen as a victory for the labour movement and a testament to the power of collective action and advocacy.
However, concerns remain about the circumstances surrounding Ajaero’s arrest and the ongoing threats to democratic values and workers’ rights in Nigeria.
