Members of the Nigeria Labour Congress, on Wednesday, assembled at the NLC Secretariat, Labour House, Abuja, for a nationwide protest against rising insecurity and worsening economic conditions across the country.
NLC had earlier given notice for the nationwide protest rally, directing all states NLC Chairmen to mobilize members ahead of the protest, which it described as a civic duty, aimed at mobilizing public opinion and compel authorities to prioritise security and governance reforms.
In a notice issued to state chapters on December 10, the union urged peaceful demonstrations, emphasising that the action is lawful and constitutionally protected.
President Bola Tinubu met with NLC leadership on Tuesday night in a bid to avert the protest, but the NLC President, Ioe Ajaero, told newsmen that no stopping regarding the rally.
According to Media reports, those present were NLC President Joe Ajaero and civil society allies, such as Omoyele Sowore and colleagues from the Revolution Now Movement.
Also in Lagos, the protesters gathered at Ikeja, carrying placards and chanting slogans demanding urgent action to curb violent crimes and kidnappings.
Some NLC members who spoke to newsmen, suggested that kidnappers should be sentenced to death and not be spared.
They lamented increasing cases of kidnapping, and other violent crimes including abduction of school children, travellers, in farms, adding that even their homes, people are being kidnapped, while some are being slaughtered.
Citing the case of 24 school children in Kebbi State, the union members condemned the withdrawal of security personnel prior to the attack and called for urgent action by government to redeem the ugly situation.
The protest also addresses broader labour grievances, including unresolved agreements with the Federal Government, rising cost of living, and the impact of insecurity on workers’ productivity, safety, and livelihoods.
The NLC highlighted the deaths of numerous members, teachers, farmers, miners, and other artisans amid escalating insecurity and government inaction.
