Pro-Democracy Activists Rally Against NLC's Planned Protest
Amidst escalating tensions between the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Federal Government, scores of pro-democracy activists took to the streets of Abuja on Friday in a solidarity march aimed at urging the NLC to suspend its planned two-day protest.
The activists, marching from the Unity Fountain to the National Assembly complex, voiced their discontent with the NLC's decision to proceed with the protest, calling for a return to the negotiation table with the government. They emphasized their readiness to mobilize Nigerians against the unionists if dialogue fails.
Chanting solidarity songs and brandishing anti-NLC placards, the protesters conveyed messages of patience and support for the government's efforts. Some placards bore inscriptions such as "Let’s be patient with Tinubu", "NLC, please rest. Jagaban is working", and "NLC, stop pretending to be fighting for Nigerians."
Addressing the media at the Unity Fountain, Sunday Attah, Convener of the Nigerian Civil Society Forum, criticized the NLC's stance, highlighting historical discrepancies in the union's advocacy efforts. Attah urged the NLC to emulate the solidarity demonstrated by the United Kingdom during economic challenges, emphasizing the need for patience and support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration.
Co-convener Terrence Kuanum echoed Attah's sentiments, emphasizing the futility of shutting down commercial activities to address economic hardships. Kuanum urged the NLC to reconsider its decision within 24 hours and return to negotiations, warning of mobilization efforts against the union if protests persist.
Despite warnings from the Department of State Services, the NLC remains resolute in its decision to proceed with the planned protests, citing the government's failure to fulfill commitments made following the 14-day ultimatum. The nationwide protests, scheduled for February 27 and 28, aim to draw attention to the country's cost of living crisis.
As tensions escalate between labor and government, the nation braces for potential disruptions, with both sides unwilling to yield ground in their respective positions.
