The National Coordinator of the Federal Workers Forum (FWF), Mr Andrew Emelieze, collapsed on Thursday during his arraignment at the Federal High Court in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Emelieze, known for leading campaigns for improved workers’ welfare and the payment of ₦35,000 wage award arrears, was brought to court by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).
He had been detained by the DSS on June 30, 2025, in Ibadan and was briefly released on July 1. However, he was re-arrested and brought before Justice Nkeonye Maha to face a four-count charge.
The charges reportedly relate to alleged injurious statements against the Federal Government, a threat to protest at Aso Rock, and failure to honour a DSS invitation.
Before the charges could be read, Emelieze suddenly collapsed in the courtroom. The incident forced Justice Maha to rise immediately as efforts were made to revive the defendant.
The court later adjourned the case to October 24, 2025, for arraignment.
The Federal Workers Forum has been vocal in recent months, demanding better pay and improved conditions for Nigerian civil servants.
