NLC president held, SERAP raided as Nigerian govt targets critics

Nigeria’s State Security Service (SSS) has arrested Joe Ajaero, the president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the country’s largest labour federation, in a move that is raising concerns about growing government intolerance of dissent.

The arrest, which took place on Monday, comes just days after Mr Ajaero criticized the government’s recent decision to increase petrol prices by 39%. The NLC had threatened to go on strike if the hike was not reversed, citing the severe economic impact on Nigerians already struggling with high living costs.

Mr Ajaero was detained by the State Security Service (SSS) officers at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja while he was attempting to travel to Britain for union business. The reasons for his arrest have not been disclosed, and the SSS has not issued a statement on the matter.

The fuel price increase, announced by the government earlier this month, has led to widespread outrage, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the rising cost of living.

The latest increase in fuel prices has sparked widespread frustration among Nigerians already facing a high cost of living, with fears it could further drive up inflation, which is already in double digits.

Analysts warn that the hike could further drive inflation, which is already at double-digit levels, and exacerbate economic hardships for millions of people who rely on petrol to power small businesses and households.

The arrest follows a pattern of escalating crackdowns on opposition voices, journalists, and civil society groups critical of government policies.

In the past year, dozens of journalists have been arrested or attacked, and there are growing concerns over government actions targeting free speech and civil liberties.

SERAP Raided

Hours after Ajaero’s arrest, the SSS raided the office of the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), a civil society organization known for its anti-corruption campaigns.

According to SERAP, SSS officers occupied their Abuja office and demanded to see the organization’s directors. SERAP called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene immediately and order an end to the “harassment, intimidation, and attack on the rights of Nigerians.”

The government’s actions have raised concerns among rights groups and citizens about a potential crackdown on dissenting voices and civic organizations critical of its policies.

In the first year of the Tinubu administration, dozens of journalists have been arrested and attacked for their work. Last week, citizens who took part in a nationwide protest in August against economic hardship were charged with “treason.”

SERAP and NLC are prominent organizations advocating for social justice, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria, and these recent moves have sparked fears of a shrinking civic space in the country.

As tensions rise, the NLC and other civil society groups are demanding the immediate release of Mr Ajaero and an end to what the government’s efforts to stifle opposition and intimidate citizens.