The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly criticised the Department of State Services (DSS) following the dramatic arrest of African Action Congress (AAC) chieftain and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The labour union described the incident as disturbing and warned that such actions could weaken public trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
In a statement issued on Thursday, NLC President, Joe Ajaero, condemned the manner in which DSS operatives carried out the arrest, saying the agency’s conduct raised serious concerns about professionalism and respect for due process.
According to Ajaero, the scene that played out inside the court premises was unnecessary and unacceptable for an agency expected to operate with discipline and restraint.
“We are appalled by the conduct of the DSS at the Federal High Court, Abuja while taking into custody Mr. Omoyele Sowore. This is a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
“The rowdy scene, bullish behaviour, the mass intimidation by the personnel and the humiliation of Sowore were totally unnecessary and embarrassing to an organisation that carries with it a certain level of sophistication or elegance.
“We are opposed to this kind of drama by our Secret Service as there was no need for it. Who were they re-enacting this for, anyway,” Ajaero asked.
The NLC said the public display during the arrest created an impression of intimidation rather than law enforcement. The union noted that security agencies must carry out their responsibilities in ways that strengthen, not damage, public confidence in state institutions.
Ajaero also questioned the role of the DSS in the matter, expressing concern over what he described as conflicting positions taken by the agency in the case.
He argued that the development raises questions about fairness, especially in a situation where the DSS appears deeply involved in multiple stages of the legal process.
The labour leader stressed that Nigeria’s democracy must be protected from actions capable of creating fear among citizens, activists, and opposition voices.
He warned that excessive use of force or intimidation in politically sensitive cases could further deepen concerns over civil liberties and freedom of expression in the country.
