NLC in emergency closed-door meeting over Ajaero’s arrest

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on Monday convened an emergency closed-door meeting following the arrest of its national president, Joe Ajaero.

Earlier on Monday, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) apprehended Ajaero at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja while on his way to the United Kingdom to attend the Trade Union Congress of Britain.

However, a statement by NLC spokesman, Com. Benson Upah, said: “The NLC remains resolute in its commitment to protecting workers’ rights and will not be cowed by the oppressive tactics of the state.

“Once again, we demand the immediate and unconditional release of Comrade Joe Ajaero and the cessation of all forms of harassment against labour leaders and the Nigerian working class, including innocent citizens who hold dissenting opinions.

“We equally demand that the state frees all Nigerians languishing in various prisons around the country for exercising their democratic rights to protest in the #EndBadGovernance rallies around the country.

“Finally, the organs of the Congress are in a closed-door meeting whose outcome will be made available to the public.”