The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has said it would conduct a thorough medical examination on its president, Joe Ajaero, to ensure his health has not been adversely affected by the detention.
The union also demanded return of his withheld travel documents.
Ajaero was arrested by operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS) on Monday morning at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja while preparing to board a flight to the United Kingdom for an official assignment.
In a statement by its Deputy President, Adewale Adeyanju, yesterday, the NLC said Ajaero was freed around 11pm, following significant pressure from the Congress and a firm ultimatum from its National Administrative Council (NAC), which had demanded his release by midnight.
The workers’ body applauded Nigerians, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), affiliated groups, and the international community for their overwhelming support during what it termed ‘the recent unlawful arrest and detention of its President, Comrade Joe Ajaero.’
NLC praised the unity and solidarity shown in defense of justice and workers’ rights, which it said showed the strength of collective action and the deep connection between the Nigerian populace and the labor movement.
The Congress further condemned Ajoero’s arrest as a severe abuse of power and an attack on the rights of all Nigerian workers and citizens.
The NLC warned against further actions by the government that could undermine the labour movement and stifle legitimate demands, including the implementation of the new National Minimum Wage.
It reiterated calls for the release of citizens detained for participating in #EndBadGovernance protests, cessation of the suppression of dissenting voices,m as well as reversal of recent hikes in petrol and electricity tariffs.
NLC noted that the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting scheduled for Tueday has been postponed to assess the situation and determine future actions.
“The NLC will not waver in its duty to defend the rights of workers, and we remain prepared to take all necessary actions to protect these rights and restore justice. The National Executive Council (NEC) of the NLC which was proposed for today has therefore been suspended to assess the situation and determine the next steps in our collective struggle.
“We call on all Nigerians, our affiliates, and the international community to remain steadfast and vigilant as we continue this fight. The NLC is committed to ensuring that justice prevails and that the rights of workers and citizens are respected. Together, we will overcome these challenges and secure a better future for all,” the Congress added.