The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, has criticised the conduct of the Department of State Services (DSS) during the arrest and detention of activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Ajaero described the actions of DSS operatives at the court premises as unnecessary, embarrassing, and inconsistent with the standards expected of a security organisation.
He condemned what he described as the “rowdy scene, intimidating behaviour and humiliation” of Sowore by security personnel, questioning the rationale behind the approach adopted by the agency.
Ajaero also expressed concern over the DSS’s involvement in the matter, arguing that the agency appeared to be acting beyond its constitutional mandate by taking on the roles of both accuser and enforcer.
According to him, issues of prosecution should be handled by the appropriate authorities, particularly the Ministry of Justice and the Attorney General of the Federation, rather than allowing the intelligence agency to take centre stage in such matters.
The NLC President warned that the DSS must remain focused on its constitutional responsibility of protecting the state and upholding national interests, rather than appearing to serve the interests of individuals or governments.
He stressed that every citizen, including those facing allegations, is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court, adding that actions perceived as targeting individuals could undermine democratic principles.
Ajaero cited the Watergate scandal in the United States, where investigative efforts by journalists and law enforcement institutions led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon, as an example of how strong institutions protect democracy.
He urged public institutions to prioritise institutional independence over personal loyalty, warning that excessive focus on individuals could weaken Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
“We need strong institutions and not strong individuals for our democracy to survive,” Ajaero said, urging relevant authorities to respect the rights of citizens and uphold the rule of law.