The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has accused unnamed forces of plotting to derail its planned nationwide protest and threatened to declare an indefinite strike if its demonstrators are attacked or prevented from marching.
At a press briefing, the NLC warned those it said are intent on sabotaging the protest, scheduled for December 17, to desist immediately. The union described any move to stop the peaceful rally against insecurity as a “declaration of war” on Nigerian workers and their allies.
The protest, which has been endorsed by various labour and civil society groups, is aimed at drawing attention to worsening insecurity, including killings, kidnappings and attacks on schools and communities nationwide. The congress said it remains committed to mobilising citizens to express their frustrations over the deteriorating security situation.
The NLC stated that should even a single worker, comrade or civilian be harmed while exercising their constitutional right to protest, it would immediately call for a comprehensive and indefinite nationwide strike. Such action, the union warned, would see all sectors of the economy brought to a halt, affecting production and services across the country.
In its statement, the labour body also criticised political influence and other interests it said have attempted to “hijack” advocacy for workers and citizens, insisting that the protest is aimed at protecting the rights and security of Nigerians.
The NLC reiterated that the planned protest is lawful and peaceful, urging the government and security agencies to facilitate the exercise rather than impede it. The union said it would continue to engage stakeholders who share its goal of ensuring safety and better living conditions for all Nigerians.
