The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has expressed deep gratitude to top human rights lawyers and civil society organisations over the release of its National Coordinator, Comrade Andrew Emelieze, who had been detained by the Department of State Services (DSS) for 14 days.
Emelieze, a labour leader based in Ibadan and a former Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Oyo State, regained his freedom on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, after being held by the DSS in Oyo State.
His arrest, which occurred on June 30, 2025, resulted in a 14-day detention. Sources revealed that Emelieze was first arrested, released, and then re-arrested, allegedly due to his prominent role in founding the Federal Workers Forum—a group actively advocating for better working conditions for Nigerian civil servants.
In a joint statement issued on Sunday and signed by Emelieze (National Coordinator), Comrade Itoro Obong (National Secretary), and Comrade Ogundele Ayo (Assistant Secretary), the FWF expressed sincere appreciation to legal practitioners such as Femi Falana (SAN), Barrister Femi Aborishade, Barrister Yusuff Akinola, and other lawyers from Abope Chambers for their “consistent legal backing and strong support” throughout Emelieze’s detention.
The statement also extended thanks to rights activists, labour comrades, and everyday Nigerians who pushed for Emelieze’s release, describing his arrest as yet another example of state clampdown on labour unions and activist voices under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Although relieved by Emelieze’s freedom, the Forum emphasized that the campaign for improved welfare and fair working conditions is still ongoing.
They pointed out that Nigerian workers continue to suffer from government indifference and worsening economic conditions, particularly in the face of unchecked inflation and stagnant wages.
“The current national minimum wage does not reflect the realities of today’s economy. Families are struggling to survive amid the rising cost of living,” the statement read.
“We urge the government to respond swiftly to the economic crisis and engage with the legitimate demands of workers to ensure fairness and stability in the country.”
The Forum reaffirmed its commitment to pressing forward with its advocacy, declaring: “We remain resolute in the fight for justice, adequate compensation, and a better future for every Nigerian worker.”
Read more updates and join our conversation on WhatsApp via our channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VabITrvEAKW7DSkTfP0J