NLC Issues Demands to Federal Government Amid Protests

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has presented a series of demands to the federal government in response to the ongoing nationwide #EndBadGovernance protests.

The demands were outlined in a communique signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja, following a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on Wednesday.

The labour union called for the reversal of harmful government policies and the implementation of immediate relief measures to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians. The NLC also condemned the use of force by security operatives against protesters and declared a day of mourning to honor those injured or killed during the protests.

The NLC criticized security agencies for their violent response to the protests and neglect of other pressing security issues. The union emphasized that the right to protest is a constitutional right and urged the government to stop meddling with and disrupting peaceful demonstrations.

Key demands from the NLC include:

Reversal of Policies: The NLC demands the reversal of policies that have led to the current economic crisis, urging the government to implement measures that prioritize the welfare of the people, create jobs, and ensure fair resource distribution.

Day of Mourning: The NLC will designate a National Day of Mourning to honor those who have been maimed or killed during the #EndBadGovernance protests.

Accountability: The NLC calls for an independent investigation into the killings and maiming of protesters, demanding that those responsible be held accountable and that all illegally detained protesters be released.

Dialogue and Engagement: The union urges the federal government to engage in meaningful dialogue with protesters, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to resolve the ongoing crisis.

Immediate Relief Measures: The NLC calls for immediate relief measures, including direct food aid, subsidies on essential commodities, and other social safety nets to alleviate the suffering of workers and the general populace.

End Political Meddling: The union demands that the federal government restrain its officials from politically motivated interference, particularly the Minister of Labour and the Registrar of Trade Unions, warning that failure to do so could lead to an industrial crisis.

Strengthening Solidarity: The NLC encourages all Nigerian workers to remain united and resolute in their demands for better governance, emphasizing that solidarity is key to amplifying the voices of the people and demanding justice and accountability.