Nigerian Labour Leader Arrested Amidst Fuel Price Hike Controversy

Nigeria's state security service arrested Joe Ajero, president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), following his criticism of the government's decision to increase gasoline prices by 39%. Ajero's detention comes amid threats of a strike and fears that higher fuel prices could exacerbate economic hardship and inflation.

Nigeria's state security service detained Joe Ajero, president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), on Monday under undisclosed charges, according to the NLC. His arrest follows recent criticism of the government's decision to hike gasoline prices by 39%, a move that prompted Ajero to threaten a nationwide strike.

According to the NLC's statement on social media platform X, Ajero was apprehended by officials from the Department of State Security (DSS) at Abuja's airport while en route to Britain for union-related business. The DSS has yet to issue a comment on the detention.

Economic analysts warn that the increased fuel prices, crucial for small businesses and household generators, could further fuel inflation, already in double digits, worsening the country's economic challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)