An Ibadan-based labour leader and former Chairman of Trade Union Congress [TUC] in Oyo State, Mr Andrew Emelieze, who was detained by the Department of State Services [DSS] in Oyo State, has regained his freedom.

Emelize’s release came 14 days after his detention by the DSS. The National Coordinator of Federal Workers Forum (FWF) was detained on June 30, 2025, by the DSS. It was gathered that he was detained due to his involvement in the formation of the Federal Workers Forum (FWF). The forum has been championing the welfare of Nigerian workers. The DSS released him on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.

The Oyo State Coordinator of Campaign for Democratic and Workers’ Rights, Mr Abiodun Bamigboye, confirmed the release of the labour leader. Bamigboye, in a statement obtained on Thursday night, said that it was the intervention of lawyers and other activists that ensured the release of the labour leader.

He said, “Comrade Andrew Emelieze got his freedom after 14 days’ detention, following the intervention of counsel from Barrister Femi Aborisade’s Chamber, and comrades in Oyo State. Nothing shall discourage us.” (The Guardian)