Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has shared his experience during his detention by the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies. Following his arrest, the DSS confiscated his phones and international passport, but these items were returned to him on Tuesday.
Ajaero described his detention as involving multiple interrogations. He revealed that while in custody, he was questioned by both the DSS and the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) of the police. The IRT operatives, who had previously questioned him alongside Mr. Femi Falana on August 29, 2024, asked similar questions during his detention.
They inquired about various matters, including the operator of the Iva Valley Bookshop located in the NLC secretariat, communication with this individual, and details about protesters like Eleojo Opaluwa of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE). Ajaero confirmed his acquaintance with Opaluwa, noting that he employed him at NUEE.
The security agents also questioned him about the Labour Party, clarifying that the NLC does not run the party but is a trustee. Ajaero mentioned that the Labour Party was established when Adams Oshiomhole was NLC President. Additionally, they asked about the resolved Air Peace issue.
Ajaero expressed his frustration, suggesting that the security agencies are seeking evidence to implicate him and the NLC, leading to ongoing embarrassment, persecution, and intimidation.
