The Federal Government on Monday arrested the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, just as he was preparing to board a flight to the United Kingdom for a Trade Union Congress (TUC) conference.
Sources revealed that operatives from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) were responsible for the arrest, although the exact reasons for the detention remain unclear at this time. The arrest comes amidst growing tensions between the Nigerian government and labour unions over the ongoing economic and policy issues.
This follows a summons issued by the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), demanding that Ajaero and NLC General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja, appear before the Force Intelligence Department (FID) for questioning. They were scheduled to meet with the Deputy Inspector General of Police in Abuja on September 5, 2024, regarding allegations of “criminal intimidation, conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace, and malicious damage to properties.”
The letter of invitation, signed by Commissioner of Police Ibitoye Rufus Alajide, had requested the labour leaders to report to the FID complex for interrogation in relation to the growing tension between the government and labour unions following planned industrial actions.
This development has raised concerns among labour leaders and activists who view it as part of broader efforts to stifle dissent and prevent union actions. The NLC and TUC have both been vocal about their opposition to government policies and rising economic hardship.
As of the time of filing this report, further details about the reasons behind Ajaero’s arrest are still awaited, with growing speculation that it may be linked to the recent industrial protests and plans for another nationwide strike.
