The Trades Union Congress (TUC) of the United Kingdom has strongly criticized the Nigerian government for the “unlawful arrest and persecution” of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President Joe Ajaero.
Ajaero was detained at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja while en route to address the UK TUC conference. Although released later that night, concerns over ongoing harassment and intimidation against him remain.
In a video, the UK TUC leadership, addressing the conference Ajaero was scheduled to speak at, expressed their outrage.
“Joe was released last night, but it is clear that his ordeal is not yet over. His unlawful arrest is a gross violation of fundamental trade union freedoms, especially as he was on his way to speak to us about the vital right of trade unions to seek solidarity,” a UK TUC leader said.
The speaker also reaffirmed their unwavering support for Nigerian unions, stating, “Nigeria’s trade unions still have our solidarity. We condemn the actions of the Nigerian government and demand that they cease their persecution of Joe Ajaero.”
Ajaero’s arrest prevented him from attending a critical International Trade Union Congress meeting in the UK.
There are speculations that his detention may be linked to his refusal to respond to summons from undercover police or a petition filed against him by an airline operator.
The Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria’s secret police, has remained silent on the incident, continuing their recent trend of avoiding public commentary on sensitive issues.
Despite this, the UK TUC and the international trade union community continue to rally behind Ajaero, demanding the cessation of any further harassment.