KEY POINTS

• NLC President Joe Ajaero was released by security operatives after hours in detention
• His arrest sparked widespread condemnation from labor unions and civil society groups
• NLC urges workers to remain vigilant and ready for potential action

Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has been released by security operatives after being detained earlier on Monday.

His release was confirmed around 11:10 p.m. by a senior NLC leader.

Ajaero was arrested at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja and he was in the process of traveling to the United Kingdom for an official assignment.

According to  Vanguard, the reason for his detention was not immediately clear, but sources indicated that he was handed over to the National Intelligence Agency (NIA). 

Arrest draws immediate reactions

The Nigeria Labour Congress was quick to respond to the arrest and enquired about the health of Ajaero and called for his release.

Through a statement, the NLC described the arrest as one that was meant to silence people’s voice and opposition to government policies.

In addition, labor leaders, activists, and civil society organizations across the country echoed similar sentiments, condemning the detention and calling for Ajaero’s release.

Upon confirming the information, the NLC immediately informed its affiliates and all the state councils to be cautious doing their work.

Moreover, the labor union stressed that such actions of the security agencies are anti-democratic and infringe on the right to assembly.

NLC confirms release, No further details on detention

After the release of Ajaero, the NLC restated its worries about every security agency attacking or detaining every labor leader.

While the details surrounding the arrest remain unclear, the NLC expressed relief at Ajaero’s safe return and confirmed that he would resume his duties as president of the labor union.

No official statement has been issued by security agencies regarding the reasons for Ajaero’s detention or the circumstances of his release.

Furthermore, the NLC has called for transparency in handling such matters and emphasized the importance of allowing labor leaders to perform their responsibilities without interference.