BREAKING: NLC Issues Stern Warning to Nigerian Government Ahead of Nationwide Protest
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has positioned itself firmly against the Nigerian government, cautioning of a potential economic halt if their members face any form of aggression during the upcoming nationwide protest.
This demonstration, planned for February 27 and 28, is consequent to a deep-seated frustration over the country’s economic difficulties, underlined by a recent 14-day ultimatum given to the government addressing the widespread hardship experienced by Nigerians.
The NLC’s resolution to protest has been met with opposition from various quarters, including the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, who have both appealed for the protest to be called off.
The Trade Union Congress also expressed concerns, suggesting that the protest could spiral into anarchy given the country’s current tense atmosphere, compounded by widespread hardship and hunger.
Amidst these tensions, the government hinted that proceeding with the protest might lead to legal repercussions for the NLC, citing potential contempt of court. However, this claim was robustly countered by Femi Falana, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, who asserted that the protest does not violate any court orders, reinforcing the NLC’s right to peaceful demonstration.
The NLC has remained resolute, with its President affirming the decision to go ahead with the protest, urging the government not to interfere with what promises to be a peaceful demonstration.
The Congress has raised alarms over alleged government plans to undermine the protest through violent means, specifically mentioning the Nigeria Civil Society Forum (NCSF) as a potential threat.
Also, the accusation highlights a broader critique of the government’s approach to dealing with dissent, with the NLC condemning the use of force and advocating for dialogue and meaningful solutions to the country’s economic woes.
In a stirring call to action, the NLC has emphasized the importance of peaceful protest as a fundamental right, drawing on historical struggles to show their determination to face down any aggression. The union has also reached out to international bodies, seeking to highlight the gravity of their plight on a global stage.