Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has issued a strong warning against what he described as a disturbing wave of repression targeting labour leaders across Africa.
Speaking at the 14th Regional Conference of Public Services International for Africa and Arab Countries in Accra, Ajaero condemned the increasing use of state power to silence union voices and dismantle organized labour structures.
He highlighted a pattern of state-sponsored intimidation, including arbitrary arrests, interference in union affairs, and the imposition of government-aligned leadership on workers’ organizations. “The growing reliance on force in labour relations is nothing short of a top-down class war,” Ajaero stated. “We’ve witnessed union offices being seized, leadership manipulated, and governments dictating who represents workers.”
Drawing from recent events in Nigeria, Ajaero pointed to the storming of NLC offices, the detention of union officials, and efforts to install state-preferred figures in key positions. He also referenced the “hijack of labour centres” in Guinea-Bissau as part of a broader trend undermining democratic principles and workers’ rights.
Ajaero linked this crackdown to the broader economic hardship facing workers across the continent. He argued that neoliberal economic policies have intensified poverty, even among those with stable employment. “African workers are trapped in a cruel paradox—working harder, yet sinking deeper into poverty,” he said. “What should be a path to dignity has become a cycle of deprivation.”
He further criticized the deteriorating conditions of work, citing delayed salaries, unsafe job environments, and rising insecurity that endangers frontline public servants like teachers and healthcare workers.
Ajaero’s message was clear: the assault on labour is not just a threat to unions, but to democracy itself. He called for solidarity among workers and urged governments to respect the autonomy of labour institutions and prioritize the welfare of their citizens.
I think Ajaero makes a valid point about authoritarianism in Africa. Its a troubling trend that needs more attention and action.
I think Ajaero makes a valid point about authoritarianism. Its a slippery slope we need to watch out for.
Do you think Ajaeros warning is exaggerated or justified? Is there a real threat of rising authoritarianism in Africa? Lets discuss!
I agree with Ajaero! Crackdown on labor leaders is a threat to democracy. Lets stand against rising authoritarianism in Africa.
Wow, isnt it concerning how labor leaders are facing crackdowns? Definitely raises questions about democracy and freedom in Africa.
I dont agree with Ajaeros warning of rising authoritarianism. Leaders need to be held accountable for fair treatment of labor.