NLC Urges President Tinubu to Halt Policy Blame Game and Engage in Dialogue Amid Protests
Written by Jerry Alomatu on August 13, 2024
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to cease its pattern of blaming others for current hardships, reverse controversial policies, and initiate genuine discussions with relevant stakeholders.
In a statement released following an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, NLC President Joe Ajaero criticized the administration for what he described as harassment and intimidation of labor leaders. The meeting, held on August 10, 2024, was prompted by a recent invasion of the NLC headquarters by government security forces, which the NLC condemned as a provocative act.
The NLC’s communique expressed deep concern over the government’s actions, which include alleged attempts to suppress dissent and obstruct labor activities. It also called for guarantees of safety for workers and trade unions, and demanded the withdrawal of government agents from occupied premises.
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Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, expressed his condolences to those affected by the recent nationwide protests and urged leaders to address the escalating poverty in Nigeria. In a statement on his X handle, Obi emphasized that the protests were a call for serious reflection and action on the worsening economic conditions affecting the populace.
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Salihu Lukman, former National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has labeled the government’s mishandling of the protests and its policies as grounds for impeachment. He criticized the administration for its failure to address the underlying issues of hunger and inflation, and for undermining democratic processes.
Lukman argued that the government’s response to the protests and the ongoing economic hardships has exposed the inefficacy of democratic institutions and political parties in Nigeria. He suggested that the withdrawal of subsidy and floating exchange rates have exacerbated inflation, worsening the plight of ordinary Nigerians.
The NLC has demanded an apology from the Federal Government for the invasion of its headquarters and called for an immediate end to violence against protesters. It has also urged the government to facilitate an inclusive dialogue to address the root causes of the current unrest.
The NLC emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of the policies contributing to public discontent and urged the government to demonstrate a commitment to resolving the nation’s challenges. It has directed its leadership to hold a press conference and to conduct a forensic audit of the NLC headquarters to ensure its security.
As Nigeria grapples with widespread dissatisfaction and economic difficulties, the NLC’s call for dialogue and policy reassessment reflects the broader demand for effective governance and responsive leadership.
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Author: Jerry Alomatu
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