The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called for the immediate and unconditional release of its president Joe Ajaero who was arrested on Monday by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).
Mr Ajaero was heading to the UK for a global Trade Union Congress meeting when he was arrested at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Monday.
NLC’s spokesman Benson Upah said in a statement that the congress had put all its affiliates, state councils, civil society allies and all patriotic Nigerians on the highest state of alert.
“The congress will not stand idly by while the rights of its leaders and members are trampled upon. Accordingly, we demand for the immediate and unconditional release of Comrade Ajaero,” Upah said.
“We call on the international community, human rights organisations and all advocates of democracy to take note of this rising wave of authoritarianism in Nigeria.
“The world must bear witness to these assaults on human dignity, civil liberties, and the rule of law.
“The NLC remains resolute in its commitment to protecting workers’ rights and will not be cowed by the oppressive tactics of the state.”
Upah said the NLC was yet to ascertain Ajaero’s whereabouts and state of health.