In a world where the defence of workers’ rights is essential, recent events in Nigeria are raising major international concerns. The arrest of the President of the Nigerian Labour Congress, Joel Ajaero, by the country’s security services has sparked outrage from many trade unions around the world, including the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) and the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB).
These organisations have expressed concern over the attacks, harassment and persecution of trade union leaders in Nigeria. The arrest of Joel Ajaero as he was about to travel to the UK to attend a Trade Union Congress (TUC) conference was seen as an attack on fundamental workers’ rights.
In a poignant statement, OATUU stressed the need for the Nigerian government to end these intimidations against trade unions. The organization called for dialogue and consultation to be given priority to resolving disputes, rather than resorting to repressive methods.
For its part, the DGB strongly condemned the arrest of Joel Ajaero and denounced the accusations against him aimed at weakening the voice of trade unions in Nigeria. According to the DGB, these attacks on trade unions constitute a violation of the fundamental conventions of the International Labour Organization, which Nigeria has committed to respect.
It is important to emphasize that criticism of government policies by trade unions is a fundamental democratic right, which cannot justify arbitrary arrests or acts of intimidation. Trade unions play a crucial role in defending the interests of workers and promoting just social reforms.
In conclusion, the international community must remain vigilant about the situation in Nigeria and support the efforts of trade unions for a just and peaceful future. The unity of trade union organisations around the world in their condemnation of attacks on workers’ rights is essential to preserve democracy and fundamental freedoms.