NLC Regrets Not Joining August Protest, Criticizes Tinubu’s Government for Stifling Opposition
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed regret for not participating in the #EndBadGovernance protest that took place in August.
Benson Upah, NLC’s Head of Information, criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for suppressing opposing voices. He accused the government of using the Department of State Services (DSS) and the police to arrest critics, suggesting that this marks a shift towards dictatorship under Tinubu’s leadership.
In an interview with Arise TV, Upah described the arrests as a distraction from pressing issues like the recent increase in PMS prices. He claimed that the government’s actions are a deliberate attempt to divert attention from its policies. Upah argued that such tactics are characteristic of a creeping dictatorship and expressed disappointment that those who once championed democracy are now suppressing dissent.
Upah denied that NLC leader Ajaero was evading authorities, stating that no formal invitation or explanation had been given for his arrest. He suggested that the government’s motive might be to silence opposition voices rather than address actual criminal behavior.
He also criticized the government’s framing of allegations like terrorism and cybercrime against NLC leaders as baseless. Upah reflected that joining the protest might have prevented the raid on their headquarters, indicating that the government’s actions reveal its fear of the NLC’s influence.
Overall, Upah maintained that the NLC will continue to stand firm against what it sees as unjust policies and suppression of free speech.
