By Rita Daniel
LAGOS - The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) is set to hold a nationwide protest on December 17 in response to the growing insecurity threatening the safety of citizens, particularly students. This decision was reached during the NLC National Executive Council (NEC) meeting concluded on Monday.
The communiqué, jointly signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and Acting General Secretary Benson Upah, highlighted pressing national and industrial issues grappling the nation. Of particular concern is the recent kidnapping of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi, which has reinvigorated fears about the safety of educational institutions.
During the meeting, the NEC condemned the heinous act of kidnapping and the killing of a school staff member during the Kebbi incident. A significant point of criticism was directed at the lack of security personnel present at the school prior to the attack, raising questions about government negligence.
The communiqué characterized the alarming rise in assaults on educational facilities as unacceptable and urgently calls on the federal government to prioritize the security of all schools—especially those situated in remote and vulnerable regions of Nigeria.
To ensure a unified voice in this protest, the NEC resolved to mobilize all NLC affiliates and state councils across the country. Ajaero emphasized the need for immediate investigations and accountability for those responsible for the security failings that have allowed such tragic events to occur.
Other critical issues discussed during the NEC meeting included the ongoing crisis in the tertiary education sector and the continuing strike by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU). The NEC also highlighted the importance of revitalizing the Labour–Civil Society Coalition (LASCO) as a means to strengthen advocacy efforts.
Concerns regarding the current state of the Labour Party were also raised, with members urged to realign the party's values with the principles of the working class. The NEC made it clear that integrity must be upheld within the party to effectively serve the citizens.
The communiqué warned that if the federal government does not take decisive action regarding insecurity, it could lead to intensified industrial actions across various sectors, including critical areas like health and education. The NLC emphasized that the safety and welfare of workers remains a central tenet of their advocacy.
In closing, the NLC urged citizens to stand in solidarity with workers as they push for a safer Nigeria. They reassured the public that the planned protest would be peaceful yet firm, aiming to compel the government to address the pressing security challenges head-on.
The NLC’s commitment to defending the rights of workers and improving socio-economic conditions remains unwavering. This protest serves as a clarion call for action, invigorating the national conscience toward the pressing need for security reforms.
As the date approaches, the NLC invites all citizens to join hands in demanding a more secure and just nation for everyone. The outcome of this protest may significantly influence the dialogue surrounding security issues moving forward.
