Labour Uncovers Plot to Disrupt Protest, Threatens Indefinite Nationwide Strike

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has alleged that there is a plot by unidentified interests to disrupt its planned nationwide protest, warning that any attempt to undermine the demonstration could trigger an immediate and indefinite strike across the country.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the NLC said it had uncovered credible information suggesting moves to frustrate the peaceful conduct of the protest, which is being organised to draw attention to worsening socioeconomic conditions, rising insecurity and the hardship faced by Nigerian workers and citizens. The labour centre cautioned that it would not tolerate intimidation, violence or sabotage, stressing that any harm to protesters or deliberate disruption of the exercise would be seen as a direct attack on organised labour. If any worker or citizen is attacked, or if there is any attempt to scuttle this protest, the NLC will have no option than to declare a total and indefinite nationwide strike,” the congress warned. According to the NLC, the planned protest is part of its broader demand for urgent government action on issues including the high cost of living, unpaid wages and allowances, insecurity, and the state of public education and healthcare. It maintained that the protest is constitutional and peaceful, urging security agencies to protect protesters rather than suppress them. The congress also called on workers across all sectors, civil society groups and concerned Nigerians to remain vigilant and resolute, insisting that the protest is aimed at safeguarding the welfare of citizens and the future of the country. As of the time of filing this report, the Federal Government had not officially reacted to the NLC’s allegations or the threat of an indefinite strike. However, analysts warn that any escalation could have serious economic implications, recalling previous nationwide strikes that disrupted power supply, transportation and other critical services.