NLC declares two-day nationwide protest over economic hardship

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has declared a two-day nationwide mass protest over the economic hardship being faced by Nigerians.

The two-day warning protest would be held on February 27 and 28.

Benson Ukpa, NLC national head of information, confirmed the development to TheCable.

He said the decision was reached during an emergency session of the NLC held in Abuja on Friday.

On February 8, the NLC and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) gave a 14-day ultimatum to the federal government over the rising cost of living in the country.

In a joint statement, the unions said the government failed to honour the 16-point agreement that was reached on October 2, 2023, with them.

The labour movements accused the government of neglecting the welfare of Nigerians and the workers.

They warned that “everything must be done within the two weeks to avoid a situation where we may be compelled to take appropriate steps to protect Nigerian workers and masses”.

“These agreements which were reached with the federal government were focused on addressing the massive suffering and the general harsh socioeconomic consequences of the ill-conceived and ill-executed IMF/World Bank induced hike in the price of PMS and the Devaluation of the Naira,” the statement reads.

“These dual policies have had, as we predicted, dire economic consequences for the masses and workers of Nigeria.”

“Widespread Hunger is now ravishing millions of Nigerians, with the Workers purchasing power significantly eroded, while insecurity has assumed an increasing dimension. Nigerians are left wondering where their next meals will come from and what tomorrow might bring.”

The NLC and TUC had also issued a “stern ultimatum” to the federal government to honour their part of the understanding within 14 days from February 9.