Labour Protest Halts Business in Osogbo, Osun State Amid Economic Hardship
Business activities in Osogbo, Osun State, came to a standstill on Tuesday as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its affiliates staged a peaceful protest against the prevailing economic challenges gripping the nation.
Led by Christopher Arapasopo, the Osun NLC chairman, demonstrators commenced their march from Freedom Park, Osogbo, proceeding through MDS road while vocalizing anti-President Bola Tinubu sentiments.
Participating in the protest were various NLC affiliates including the Academic Staff Union of Universities, Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria, and Nigeria Union of Journalists.
As the protesters converged at Olaiya Junction, vehicular movement along Osogbo/Gbongan road was brought to a halt. Moreover, for over two hours beneath Olaiya Bridge, business operations in the vicinity were paralyzed.
The protest site saw a heavy presence of law enforcement including police, Department of State Security, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps personnel.
However, in other parts of the state capital, business activities continued uninterrupted before and during the protest.
Addressing the demonstrators, Dr. Adeola Egbedokun, ASUU Coordinator for Akure Zone, decried the hardship experienced by Nigerians, urging the Federal Government to reconsider policies adversely affecting citizens.
Egbedokun highlighted a lack of public awareness regarding the repercussions of government policies as a reason for some individuals abstaining from the protest.
He urged workers to educate the populace about the necessity of protesting against the escalating cost of living.
In his statement, Arapasopo, the Osun NLC chairman, implored the Federal Government to swiftly address the economic challenges gripping the nation.
He emphasized the disparity between the promises made during Tinubu's election campaign and the current reality, urging immediate action to alleviate the suffering of the populace.
