The president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, was allegedly physically assaulted and taken into custody by the state police during a protest in Imo State.
The unfortunate event happened while employees were assembling to protest against their maltreatment by the state government.
The purpose of the demonstration was to pressure the state government to carry out a number of labor demands, such as paying the minimum wage, pensions, and retiree gratuities on time, among other social benefits.
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However, as armed security personnel invaded the premises, the calm gathering quickly descended into chaos.
Ajaero was speaking to the NLC secretariat staff when he was unexpectedly taken into custody and taken to an undisclosed location.
It was alleged that Hope Uzodimma, the governor, is said to have given the order for the arrest.
Joe Ajaero reappeared with a swollen and battered face after being freed by Nigeria Police Force (NPF) personnel, and he was taken right away to the Federal Medical Centre in Owerri for emergency care. Following his detention, the NLC president was allegedly beaten up by the police.
The labor unions are furious about the incident; however, to deliberate on the next course of action regarding the attack on workers, the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) and the NLC are scheduled to meet.
They have issued an alert for immediate nationwide action, urging Nigerian employees, state councils, and their branches to remain vigilant.