The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to carry out comprehensive medical examinations on its President, Joe Ajaero, following his recent release from detention by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Ajaero was apprehended at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja while en route to the United Kingdom to attend a conference on workers’ rights and social justice.
The arrest of Ajaero sparked widespread concern among labour unions, civil society organisations, and the international community, who viewed it as a direct attack on the leadership of the NLC and an affront to the rights of Nigerian workers.
In a statement issued by NLC Deputy President, Prince Adewale Adeyanju, the organisation expressed gratitude to Nigerians, civil society groups, and international allies for their support during Ajaero’s arrest and subsequent detention.
The statement highlighted the collective action taken by various stakeholders in defence of justice and workers’ rights, emphasising the importance of unity in the face of oppressive actions.
According to Adeyanju, Ajaero’s release was secured after intense pressure from the NLC and adherence to the demands of the National Administrative Council (NAC).
However, the NLC remains concerned about the potential impact of the detention on Ajaero’s health and has pledged to conduct thorough medical evaluations to ensure his well-being has not been compromised.
“Ajaero’s release came after intense pressure from the NLC and compliance with the demands of the National Administrative Council, NAC,” the statement read. “The NLC remains vigilant and will conduct medical checks to ensure Ajaero’s health has not been compromised.”
NLC condemned the arrest and detention as a reckless abuse of power, reaffirming its commitment to resisting any form of oppression, intimidation, and lawlessness.
More so, the Organisation sees this incident not just as an attack on its leadership but as an assault on the fundamental rights of all Nigerian workers and citizens.
The NLC has long been at the forefront of advocating for workers’ rights and social justice, and this recent incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by labour unions in Nigeria.
The statement further criticised the actions of the DSS, describing Ajaero’s detention as an alarming example of the overreach of state security forces and a violation of democratic principles.
NLC stressed that such acts of intimidation are counterproductive to the country’s progress and stability, particularly in a time when national unity and cooperation are crucial.
In response to Ajaero’s detention, the NLC has issued several demands, including the immediate release of citizens detained for participating in the #EndBadGovernance protests.
The organisation has also called for an end to the clampdown on dissenting voices and urged the government to reverse recent increases in petrol and electricity tariffs, which have significantly burdened ordinary Nigerians.
“The NLC demands the release of citizens detained for participating in the #EndBadGovernance protest, an end to the clampdown on popular voices, and the reversal of hikes in petrol and electricity tariffs.
NLC also calls for the immediate implementation of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act,” the statement continued.
The NLC’s demands reflect broader concerns about the state of governance in Nigeria, including issues of economic hardship, social inequality, and the suppression of free speech.
The labour union argues that the government’s failure to address these challenges effectively undermines the country’s democratic institutions and threatens the rights and livelihoods of its citizens.
Moreover, the NLC reiterated its call for the swift implementation of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act, emphasising that fair wages are essential for the well-being of Nigerian workers and their families.
The organisation urged the government to act promptly and responsibly in addressing these critical issues, warning that failure to do so could lead to further unrest and dissatisfaction among the populace.
As the NLC continues to navigate these turbulent times, it remains steadfast in its mission to protect the rights of workers and hold the government accountable.
The organisation’s response to Ajaero’s detention demonstrates its resilience and determination to stand against any actions that threaten the welfare of Nigerian workers.
In conclusion, the NLC’s commitment to conducting medical checks on Joe Ajaero underscores its concern for the health and safety of its leadership amid ongoing challenges.
The organisation’s broader demands reflect its dedication to advocating for justice, transparency, and the protection of fundamental rights in Nigeria.
As the NLC moves forward, it will continue to champion the cause of workers and strive for a more equitable and just society for all Nigerians.
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