NLC Condemns DSS Treatment Of Sowore, Calls It Threat To Democracy

NLC Condemns DSS Treatment of Sowore, Calls It Threat to Democracy The Nigeria Labour Congress NLC has strongly condemned the conduct of operatives of the Department of State Services DSS during the arrest of activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, describing the treatment as intimidating, unprofessional, and a threat to democratic institutions.

In a statement issued by NLC President Joe Ajaero, the labour union expressed outrage over what it described as the “bullish behaviour,” “mass intimidation,” and public humiliation of Sowore during his arrest at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The NLC said the conduct of the DSS was unnecessary and inconsistent with the professionalism expected of a national security agency, stressing that such actions undermine public confidence in democratic governance. According to the union, the manner in which Sowore was handled reflected a disturbing pattern of repression against dissenting voices and civil activists in Nigeria. The statement further warned that continued harassment of activists could push the country toward authoritarian practices, where fear replaces freedom of expression and association. The NLC maintained that if authorities had grievances against Sowore, they should pursue legal and constitutional channels rather than resorting to intimidation and arbitrary arrests. Reaffirming its position, the labour body called for full respect for human rights, adherence to the rule of law, and protection of democratic freedoms guaranteed under Nigeria’s constitution. The union also urged security agencies to act within lawful boundaries and avoid conduct that could be interpreted as abuse of power or erosion of civil liberties. The development adds to ongoing public debate over the repeated arrests of Sowore and broader concerns about civic space and press freedom in nigeria .