The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a strong statement condemning the detention of its President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, by security authorities. Following an emergency meeting of its National Administrative Council (NAC), the NLC decried the arrest as an assault on the rights and freedoms of all Nigerian workers and called for his immediate and unconditional release.

In a communique signed by NLC Deputy President Adeyanju Adewale, the union demanded that Ajaero be released before midnight today, framing the arrest as part of an ongoing attempt to suppress dissent and intimidate the labour movement. The NLC vowed to continue its fight in defense of workers’ rights and cautioned the government against further attempts to silence opposition voices.

In addition to calling for Ajaero’s release, the NLC reiterated its demand for the reversal of the recent petrol price hike to N617 per litre, citing the increased hardship it imposes on Nigerians. The union emphasized that it would not back down from its call for economic relief for the country’s citizens.

The NLC placed its affiliates, state councils, civil society allies, and the general public on high alert in response to the escalating situation. The Congress also summoned an emergency meeting of its National Executive Council (NEC), scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on September 10, 2024, to plan its next course of action.

The labour union’s firm stance signals a growing tension between the government and Nigerian workers, as the NLC continues to oppose policies it believes exacerbate the struggles of ordinary citizens.

Key Resolutions of NLC Emergency Meeting:
– Immediate and unconditional release of Comrade Joe Ajaero by midnight.
– Reversal of the petrol price increase to N617 per litre.
– Heightened alert across NLC affiliates, state councils, and civil society allies.
– Emergency NEC meeting on September 10, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. to strategize further actions.