By Vera E. Abah, with Agency reports
THE NIGERIA Labour Congress (NLC) has confirmed the release of its president, Comrade Joe Ajaero from detention.
Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, Deputy President of NLC, gave the confirmation in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.
The NLC had in a statement on Monday stated that Comrade Ajaero was arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on his way to the UK for to honour an invitation by the Trade Union Congress, United Kingdom (TUC-UK).
Adeyanju said the NLC was pleased to inform the public that “Ajaero was released late last night, at approximately 11:00pm following intense pressure mounted by the NLC.”
The NLC further stated that the release is in compliance with the demands issued by the National Administrative Council (NAC) of the NLC.
“NAC had given the government a firm ultimatum, with a deadline of 12 midnight, to release Comrade Ajaero, whose detention was a clear violation of our rights and an affront to the principles of democracy.
“While we celebrate his release, the NLC remains vigilant.
“We will conduct a comprehensive medical check on Comrade Ajaero to ensure that his health has not been compromised as a result of the illegal and unjust treatment meted out to him.
“The well-being of our President is paramount, and we will not rest until we are assured that his health is intact,” he said.
Adeyanju said the NLC “unequivocally condemned” the reckless abuse of power and reaffirms its commitment to standing firm against all forms of oppression, intimidation, and lawlessness. He said that the NLC stood on its demands on the reversal of the hikes in the price of Petrol (PMS), electricity tariffs and demanded immediate implementation of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act.
Comrade Adeyanju, however was silent on the other demands by the NLC asking for the release of all those detained as a result of their participation in the hunger protests of August as well as the immediate implementation of the N70,000 new national minimum wage, as he announced that the emergency NEC meeting summoned to hold Tuesday had been called off to enable the NLC “to assess the situation and determine the next steps in our collective struggle.”
Adeyanju however commended Nigerians, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), affiliates, and the international community for their unwavering support and massive solidarity.
“The NLC will not waver in its duty to defend the rights of workers, and we remain prepared to take all necessary actions to protect these rights and restore justice.
“The National Executive Council (NEC) of the NLC which was proposed for today has therefore been suspended to assess the situation and determine the next steps in our collective struggle.
“The NLC is committed to ensuring that justice prevails and that the rights of workers and citizens are respected. Together, we will overcome these challenges and secure a better future for all,” he said.
