The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has called on the Federal Government to release the President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, who was arrested on Monday.
In a statement issued by TUC President, Comrade (Engr.) Festus Osifo, he stated that the action is an assault on the fundamental rights of the NLC President.
“This unjust action represents a clear violation of the rights to freedom of association and expression, fundamental pillars in any democratic society.
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“Congress, firmly condemns the arrest and calls for his immediate and unconditional release. This arrest sets a dangerous precedence that threatens not only the leadership of the Nigerian labour movement but also the voices of millions of working-class Nigerians who rely on unions to represent and protect their interests,” Osifo said.
He further stressed that it is imperative that the government respects the rule of law, democratic norms, and the legitimate rights of workers and their representatives, and that the labour movement has always stood for peaceful negotiations.
“We urge the Nigerian government to prioritize dialogue and reconciliation over harassment. We stand in solidarity with the NLC and reaffirm our commitment to defending the rights and dignity of Nigerian workers,” he said.