This morning at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Joe Ajaero, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Party (NLC), was arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) as he was about to board a flight to the United Kingdom. The arrest has sparked much speculation and outrage, with unconfirmed rumours suggesting that Ajaero may be under investigation for harbouring an international spy. The DSS has not yet issued any official statement regarding this specific allegation.
The arrest comes amid escalating tensions between labor unions and the government. Just weeks ago, on August 19, 2024, Ajaero was questioned by Nigerian police on charges including criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, high treason, subversion, and cybercrime—charges he and the NLC have strongly denied.
Following his detention and release on August 29, during which he was accompanied by prominent figures such as Femi Falana and Deji Adeyanju, the NLC warned that further action against Ajaero could spark a nationwide strike. Today’s arrest could be the spark for threatened industrial action.
Social media was flooded with reactions ranging from shock and solidarity with Ajaero to predictions about the potential economic impact of a nationwide strike. Social media posts confirmed the arrest, with some users like @Laurestar supported the move, while others preferred @themiraofor reported on the incident without taking sides, reflecting the mixed reactions.
The NLC, along with the Trades Union Congress (TUC), has previously demonstrated its willingness to mobilize in response to Ajaero’s encounters with law enforcement. These unions, known for their ability to disrupt national economic activity, have staged large protests and strikes in the past over various labor rights issues.
While the NLC has not officially called for a strike, the mood among labor leaders and workers suggests that a shutdown could be imminent. The government’s response to Ajaero’s arrest, especially if it is linked to the rumored espionage charges, will be crucial in shaping the unions’ next steps.
