• NLC warns against actions aimed at undermining labour movement
•To conduct comprehensive medical check on leader

The Department of State Services (DSS) has released the passport of Joe Ajaero, the president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).

Also, NLC has cautioned the Federal Government against further provocative actions aimed at undermining the labour movement and stifling legitimate demands.

It disclosed plans to conduct a comprehensive medical check on Ajaero to ensure that his health had not been compromised as a result of the illegal and unjust treatment meted out to him.

The passport was returned, yesterday, through Abubakar Marshall, a lawyer from the Femi Falana chambers. NLC spokesperson, Benson Upah, confirmed the release.

Ajaero was detained by DSS operatives on Monday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport in Abuja as he prepared to board a flight to the United Kingdom at the invitation of Britain’s Trade Union Congress (TUC) to represent Nigerian workers at an important international labour conference.

Following his arrest, the NLC called on all its affiliates, state councils and Nigerian workers to be on high alert for an announcement on strike and demanded his “unconditional” release by midnight.

The DSS complied, releasing Ajaero later that night.
NLC said it would not waver in its duty to defend the rights of workers, stating that it remained prepared to take all necessary actions to protect workers’ rights and restore justice.

NLC Deputy President, Adewale Adeyanju, said this yesterday, following the release of Ajaero, who was arrested by the DSS in Abuja.

Following Ajaero’s release, he said the National Executive Council (NEC) of the NLC, billed for yesterday, was suspended to assess the situation and determine the next steps in its collective struggle.

While celebrating his release, he said the NLC remained vigilant; stressing that congress would conduct a comprehensive medical check on Ajaero to “ensure that his health has not been compromised as a result of the illegal and unjust treatment meted out to him. The well-being of our president is paramount, and we will not rest until we are assured that his health is intact.”

Stating that the attack on the NLC and its leadership was not just an attack on one individual, he said it was an assault on the fundamental rights of all Nigerian workers and citizens, adding: “The government’s actions are a threat to our freedom of movement, expression and the right to organise and protest.”

While calling on all Nigerians, affiliates and the international community to remain steadfast and vigilant as the congress continues the struggle, he demanded the release of all citizens languishing in jails for their participation in the #EndBadGovernance protest.

The NLC chief also demanded the reversal of the hikes in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and electricity tariffs, as well as the immediate implementation of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act.

According to him, the NLC is committed to ensuring that justice prevails and that the rights of workers and citizens are respected.

While commending all Nigerians, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), affiliates and the international community for the unwavering support and massive solidarity shown during the unlawful arrest and detention of Ajaero, Adeyanju added that the overwhelming display of unity in defence of justice and workers’ rights reinforces the strength of collective action and underscores the unbreakable bond between the Nigerian people and the labour movement.