The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has demanded an immediate apology from the Federal Government following the recent invasion of its headquarters in Abuja by security operatives.
In a communiqué issued after its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting over the weekend, the NLC described the police invasion as a deliberate provocation by the government. The Congress stated that while it would exercise restraint for the greater good of the nation, it would not tolerate such actions.
Signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero, the communiqué rejected the police’s explanation for the invasion, labeling it an afterthought and a cover-up for hidden motives. The NLC demanded a clear and prompt explanation from the government regarding the incident.
The Congress also condemned the killing of innocent protesters who were peacefully expressing their grievances against harsh government policies. It called for the immediate release of detainees and trade unionists who were arrested in their homes or at relaxation spots.
The NLC urged the government to convene an inclusive stakeholders’ conclave to address the pressing issues confronting Nigeria, including hunger, poverty, inflation, insecurity, and widespread dissatisfaction with government policies. The NEC emphasized that the blame game must stop and that meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders is essential to finding lasting solutions to the nation’s challenges.
The communiqué warned that the invasion of the NLC headquarters might be an attempt by the government to intimidate and silence dissent through force, indicating a level of desperation within the administration. The NEC cautioned that peace without justice is unsustainable.
The NLC also called on the President to take decisive action to address systemic issues of profligacy, waste, and mismanagement that have worsened the suffering of Nigerians. It urged the government to listen to the voices of reason, embrace truth, and pursue a comprehensive overhaul of its policies, promoting national unity and restructuring instead of divisive rhetoric.
