Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajaero, has revealed his harrowing experience during his time in police custody after being arrested in Owerri, Imo State. Ajaero, who was in Owerri to organize Imo workers for a protest rally, was detained by police following disruptions by unidentified individuals during the NLC's demonstration against the alleged violation of workers' rights by the state government.
Following his release, Ajaero shared details of his ordeal, expressing that he had been subjected to severe beatings while in custody. He also recounted the police's threats to take him to court, a move that he strongly opposed.
Ajaero clarified that the temporary order to detain him would expire within one to two weeks, and that the court was responsible for addressing any alleged contempt. He emphasized that the excessive physical abuse he suffered during his arrest was a testament to his resilience.
This incident sheds light on the ongoing tensions between labor unions and the government over workers' rights and privileges, with protests and rallies becoming a common means of expression for labor organizations in Nigeria.
