The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the Federal Government’s handling of the #EndBadGovernance protests and called for an immediate reversal of policies causing economic hardship.
During an emergency meeting on Wednesday, the NEC criticized the government’s violent response to the peaceful protests, which began on August 1, 2024, resulting in deaths and injuries. The NEC’s communiqué, signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja, expressed deep concern over the government’s approach.
The NLC rebuked the government’s adherence to World Bank and IMF policies, labeling them “anti-poor.” The union also condemned the misuse of treasonable felony charges against peaceful protesters.
The NEC demanded policy reversals and immediate relief measures, a National Day of Mourning for those killed, and an independent investigation into the violence. They urged the government to engage in meaningful dialogue with protesters and stakeholders to resolve the crisis, warning of potential directives for workers to stay home for safety.
The communiqué also denounced government interference in NLC affairs, particularly actions by the Minister of Labour and the Registrar of Trade Unions, and called for the withdrawal of a politically motivated letter sent to the NLC.
