NLC Clarifies Its Position on National Protest: We cannot Stop Protest
Press Release
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has addressed a news report suggesting its withdrawal from a widely discussed national protest. The NLC categorically states that this report is false. The NLC cannot withdraw from a protest that it did not organize. Only the organizers of the speculated national protest can decide to withdraw or continue with it.
The NLC follows internal trade union mechanisms and leadership decision-making processes for industrial actions, such as protests, before undertaking such activities. However, the fact that the NLC is not organizing this protest does not mean that Organized Labour is unaware of the severe living conditions Nigerians face due to harsh government economic policies. The NLC stands in solidarity with the Nigerian people during these challenging times.
In response to the issues raised by the protest organizers, we have urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to invite the leaders of the protest movement for dialogue. We have advised that it would be counterproductive for the government to respond to the widespread anger with force. We once again implore the Federal Government and state governments to listen to the cries of the Nigerian people and take appropriate action. As the saying goes, “the voice of the people is the voice of God.”
Comrade Joe Ajaero
President
23rd July 2024
