Grace Omachoko
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has raised alarm over alleged plans by state-sponsored individuals to disrupt its scheduled rallies on Tuesday and Wednesday, expressing readiness to escalate its actions should such attacks occur.
NLC President Joe Ajaero, in a statement released on Sunday, warned of potential disruptions by groups allegedly funded and promoted by the government to incite violence against peaceful protesters.
The planned rallies are in response to the prevailing cost of living crisis exacerbated by government policies, including the removal of petrol subsidy and currency devaluation, according to earlier reports by PREMIUM TIMES.
Ajaero accused the government of failing to fulfill its promises to cushion the effects of policy changes on workers, citing a significant increase in food prices coupled with stagnant wages for public workers.
Despite government appeals to shelve the strike and assurances of addressing workers’ concerns, the NLC remained adamant, asserting its right to peaceful protest.
Ajaero reaffirmed the NLC’s commitment to proceed with the planned rallies, condemning any attempt to suppress dissent through violence or intimidation. He emphasized that hunger and economic hardship cannot be quelled by forceful means.
The NLC president called on international human rights organizations and governmental bodies to take note of the Nigerian government’s alleged infringement on citizens’ rights to peaceful protest.
In conclusion, Ajaero reiterated the resolve of the NLC and its civil society allies to peacefully express grievances and demand an end to economic hardship during the scheduled rallies on February 27th and 28th, 2024.