Presidency Warns Against Nationwide Protest by Nigeria Labour Congress

The Presidency has issued a stern warning to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) against proceeding with its planned two-day nationwide protest aimed at addressing the rising cost of living in the country. Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, and the police emphasized the potential disruption of commercial activities during the protest.

Despite the plea, NLC President Joe Ajaero affirmed that the protest would proceed as scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday. The decision to protest stems from the alleged failure of the government to implement agreements reached following the removal of fuel subsidies.

Responding to the planned protest, Onanuga deemed it a breach of the law, citing an existing court injunction restraining the NLC from such actions. He cautioned against illegal undertakings and urged the NLC to reconsider their course of action.

Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, also cautioned against any form of violence during the protest, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and order. Similar warnings were issued by police authorities in other states, including Ekiti, Delta, and Kaduna.

In a bid to address concerns about possible hijacking of the protest, 65 civil society groups pulled out from the planned demonstration, citing the risk of escalation and chaos.

Meanwhile, the NLC accused the government of sponsoring groups to disrupt the protest, affirming their right to peaceful assembly. Despite warnings, the NLC remained resolute in its decision to proceed with the protest, calling for constructive dialogue and resolution of economic challenges.

In a separate development, the National Leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, appealed for patience with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, acknowledging the difficulty of economic measures being implemented. Fasoranti urged Nigerians to trust in the government’s commitment to addressing economic challenges through collective understanding and resilience.