A prominent Nigerian workers' group, Socialist Workers League (SWL), has issued a formal statement demanding the immediate release of Abiodun Thomas, a renowned female activist, who was allegedly abducted by police officers in Lagos earlier this week.
According to eyewitness accounts, Thomas was taken into custody during a peaceful protest advocating for workers' rights and social justice in the city. The police reportedly detained her without charge or explanation, raising serious concerns over her safety and the legality of her arrest. The incident has sparked outrage across Nigeria, with civil society groups, human rights activists, and workers' unions calling for her immediate release and the protection of her fundamental rights.
Thomas, a vocal advocate for gender equality, labor rights, and democratic reforms, has been an influential figure in organizing protests and campaigns that demand greater accountability from the Nigerian government and security forces. Her recent activism has focused on addressing issues of police brutality, unemployment, and poor working conditions, making her a target of harassment by authorities.
In their statement, the workers' group condemned the "abduction" as a blatant violation of both national and international laws, including Nigeria's constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. They also noted that the unlawful detention of Thomas is part of an ongoing pattern of state-sponsored repression targeting activists, especially women, who challenge the status quo.