NLC President sounds alarm, alleges govt plot to incite violence against peaceful protesters ahead of nationwide strike
Comrade Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has sounded the alarm over what he alleges to be government plans to incite violence against NLC members ahead of the planned nationwide strike scheduled for Tuesday, February 27, 2024. Ajaero has affirmed the NLC’s unwavering determination to proceed with the protest as decided by the NLC national executive council, emphasizing that the hardships faced by Nigerians cannot be suppressed through force.
In a statement released on Sunday, February 25, the labour leader expressed grave concern about a purported scheme aimed at disrupting the protest through violent means. He cautioned that any attacks on peaceful demonstrators would inevitably lead to a complete shutdown of services by workers across the country.
Ajaero urged the government to prioritize finding sustainable solutions to the myriad challenges confronting the nation instead of exacerbating the plight of the people. He emphasized, “If the government persists in resorting to violence against us and other peace-loving Nigerians, it will be making a grave mistake. We will respond with a total shutdown through the withdrawal of services by workers.”
Highlighting the resilience of the NLC and the steadfast determination of deprived Nigerians to demand their rights peacefully, Ajaero issued a stern warning against any attempts to intimidate them.
Furthermore, Ajaero disclosed that the NLC had already alerted the African Union and the United Nations about the perceived threat to the people’s right to peaceful protest. The NLC is seeking international intervention to safeguard fundamental freedoms in Nigeria and ensure that citizens can exercise their constitutional rights without fear of reprisal.
As tensions escalate in anticipation of the nationwide strike, the NLC remains resolute in its commitment to advocating for the welfare of Nigerian workers and the broader populace. Ajaero’s allegations serve as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding democratic values and protecting the rights of citizens to express their grievances peacefully.
