ActionAid Nigeria Condemns DSS Arrest Of Ajaero, Attack On SERAP’s Office

ActionAid Nigeria has condemned the arrest of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President Joe Ajaero, as well as the Department of State Security (DSS)’s unannounced visit to the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) office.

According to a statement signed by Andrew Mamedu, Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, despite the DSS’s claim that the recent incident at SERAP’s office was misconstrued as harassment and intimidation, ActionAid Nigeria sees this unwarranted ‘visit’ as a clear attempt to silence the voices of Nigerians advocating for fair treatment and relief from economic hardship.

Following Ajaero’s release, the DSS must immediately provide a clear explanation for their actions, including the legal grounds and evidence that supported the arrest. Anything less would be a clear violation of Nigerian human rights, an assault on democratic freedoms, and an intentional strategy to instil fear in the hearts of many Nigerians, causing them to remain silent.

Mamedu stated, “We will not tolerate a return to the era of military-style repression, in which security agencies operated above the law and citizens were afraid to speak out.” ActionAid Nigeria and Nigerian citizens demand more from the government and its agencies. We demand transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights.

“In an ideal society, the Nigerian Police, not the DSS, should handle these types of arrests and inspections.”

He stated that “ActionAid Nigeria will continue to mobilise and demand justice for all Nigerians whose rights are being violated in accordance with the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution.”