Nigeria Labour Congress Calls for Nationwide Action to Reverse Anti-Poor Policies

In a bid to protect the interests of the nation and its citizens, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a rallying cry to all Civil Society Organisations and Nigerians at large, urging them to join a nationwide industrial action scheduled for August 2nd.

The NLC, during its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja on Thursday 27th, 2023, emphasized that the industrial action is crucial to prevent further hardships for the people of Nigeria. Central to their demands is the reversal of what they call “anti-poor policies,” which includes the recent price hike in Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), increased public school fees, and the release of withheld 8 months’ salaries for University lecturers and workers.

The communique issued by the NLC and signed by President Comrade Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja, expresses frustration with the government’s lack of concern for the plight of Nigerians. The NEC condemned the government’s refusal to engage in meaningful dialogue and accused it of prioritizing the wealthy at the expense of the general population.

In solidarity with the decisions of the Central Working Committee Meeting held on July 25th, 2023, the NLC reinforced its demands, calling for the immediate reversal of all anti-poor policies, the inauguration of the Presidential Steering Committee, and the formation of a coalition of all Nigerians.

To compel the government to address their concerns, the NLC announced a seven-day ultimatum, giving the government until August 2nd, 2023, to meet their demands. Should the government fail to respond, the NLC will embark on a nationwide action, organizing mass protest rallies across the country to voice their outrage against the government’s actions.

The NLC emphasized the need for unity, urging civil society organizations, Nigerians from all walks of life, and those already protesting on the streets to come together and ensure the government listens to the voice of the people. Strategy committees have been set up in all states to coordinate the efforts for the protest starting on August 2nd, 2023.