Nigeria’s state security service arrested the president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on Monday. Joe Ajero, the head of the country’s largest labour federation, was detained on undisclosed charges, the NLC reported.
The arrest comes after Ajero criticised the government’s decision to increase gasoline prices by 39%. He had threatened to call a nationwide strike if the government did not reverse the hike.
Ajero was arrested at Abuja’s airport by the Department of State Security (DSS) while attempting to travel to Britain on union business. The DSS has yet to comment on the arrest.
This development follows fuel price increases, which have contributed to widespread protests over the cost of living in early August.
Analysts warn that the recent gasoline price hike could exacerbate inflation, as fuel is essential for small businesses and households to power generators. Inflation in Nigeria is already in double digits, adding to the economic challenges facing the population.
The NLC has expressed concern over Ajero’s detention and may take further action in response to the government’s stance on fuel pricing.
