The Trade Union Congress, on Monday, demanded the unconditional release of the national president of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero.
The TUC made its stance known in a statement signed by its president, Festus Osifo.
Speaking on Ajaero’s arrest, Osifo said, “This unjust action represents a clear violation of the rights to freedom of association and expression, fundamental pillars in any democratic society.”
He further noted that the 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.”
Ajaero was arrested on Monday morning at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on his way to the United Kingdom for an official assignment.
The NLC president was billed to attend the Trade Union Congress conference in London, which begins today.