TUC Declines Participation in August 1 Nationwide Protest
The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has announced it will not join the nationwide protest set for August 1 against the country’s economic difficulties.
TUC President Festus Osifo made this clear during a State of the Nation news conference in Abuja on Thursday.
Osifo stated that TUC has no plans to mobilize its members for the protest, emphasizing the need for proper organization and communication before engaging in such activities. “To plan a protest, there must be discussions, meetings, and coordination. As of now, no one has approached us regarding this protest,” he explained.
He also urged the Inspector-General of Police to ensure the protest remains peaceful and is not hijacked by troublemakers. Osifo highlighted the responsibilities of the Nigerian Police under the Police Act and the constitution to provide security for lawful protests.
“We are unaware of the protest’s organizers, but the Nigerian Constitution clearly supports the right to protest. The Police Act mandates the police to maintain law and order and protect protesters,” Osifo stated. “We remind them to uphold these provisions.”
Osifo attributed the economic hardships to the Federal Government’s decision to float the Naira, which has left the currency vulnerable to the dollar. He called on the government to address challenges in food production, particularly in key agricultural states like Benue and Plateau.
He also urged the government to implement zero import duty on manufacturing equipment to boost job creation.
Addressing the ongoing conflict between Dangote and stakeholders in the petroleum industry, Osifo appealed to President Bola Tinubu to mediate the situation to prevent eroding investor confidence in Nigeria.
“We believe Dangote is a significant investor in Nigeria. It is essential for all parties to come together to resolve any issues. Unnecessary statements should be stopped immediately, and the President should facilitate a solution
,” Osifo concluded.
