President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, was reportedly detained by the police during an ongoing protest in Imo State. This development came as a group of troublemakers attacked protesters, damaging vehicles and injuring NLC members.
The whereabouts of the NLC President remain unknown as heavily armed security personnel apprehended him. The protest was initiated following alleged violations and abuses of workers' rights by the Imo State government, as previously announced by the NLC.
Ajaero expressed deep concern over the continuous and severe violations of workers' rights and privileges in Imo State. Despite efforts to engage in constructive dialogue and reach agreements, the state government has consistently failed to honor these commitments, thereby infringing on workers' rights.
Consequently, mass protests and industrial actions commenced on November 1, 2023, to address the persistent violation of workers' rights and privileges. The government's refusal to implement previous agreements, notably the one reached on January 9, 2021, further escalated the situation. Workers' salary arrears and the erroneous labeling of some as 'ghost workers' were cited as ongoing grievances. Approximately 11,000 individuals were unfairly branded as ghost workers, with their salaries diverted despite their diligent service.
The situation remains tense as the NLC protests against these injustices and the authorities' response to the demonstrations
