Global Labour Movement Condemns Rights Abuses in Nigeria, Plans International Day of Protest

International labour unions, including the International Trade Union Conference (ITUC) and Public Service International (PSI), have issued a strong condemnation of alleged human rights abuses and the persecution of trade unions and their leaders in Nigeria, particularly targeting Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).

Reports indicate that global trade unions are organizing a “Day of Rage” before the end of September to protest these abuses and draw international attention to the increasing intimidation and persecution of Nigerian labour leaders. Sources suggest that demonstrations will take place in major cities worldwide.

A European labour leader expressed concern over Nigeria’s deteriorating reputation in the global labour movement, stating, “Nigeria, once a respected voice, is now setting a dangerous precedent that could influence smaller nations, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. If not addressed, this could undermine global labour standards.”

The ITUC has formally petitioned President Bola Tinubu, urging him to address the alleged harassment of Ajaero and other labour leaders by Nigerian security forces. In a letter from ITUC General Secretary Luc Triangle, the organization condemned the arbitrary arrest and detention of Ajaero, referencing a recent raid on NLC offices and the confiscation of materials without justification.

Similarly, the PSI condemned the treatment of Ajaero, who was arrested by Department of State Security (DSS) agents on September 9, 2024, as he was en route to the UK. PSI General Secretary Daniel Bertossa criticized the ongoing harassment, emphasizing that such actions damage Nigeria’s international reputation and hinder freedom of expression.

The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) also denounced the government’s actions, describing the arrest of Ajaero as an unnecessary attempt to intimidate trade union leaders. NASU General Secretary Prince Peter Adeyemi, who also serves as PSI’s Vice President for Africa and the Arab world, highlighted that the current level of state oppression is unprecedented, even compared to the military era.

While Ajaero has been released on bail, the continued intimidation of activists and union leaders has sparked global concern and calls for action.