Amidst tight security arrangements, the Ikeja under-bridge in Lagos witnessed the beginning of nationwide protests organized by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) over the contentious removal of petrol subsidy. The demonstrators voiced their opposition to the government’s decision, which they believe will exacerbate the financial burdens faced by citizens.
Earlier, the NLC had criticized the palliatives introduced by the President during his nationwide broadcast on Monday, dismissing them as woefully inadequate in providing relief for the struggling population. The labor union asserted that these measures did little to alleviate the suffering experienced across the country.
Notably, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Joe Ajaero, was conspicuously absent from the meeting, raising questions about his stance on the issue. However, the NLC reaffirmed its commitment to moving forward with the planned national protest on Wednesday.
In response to the escalating situation, the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, made a plea to the organized labor during a briefing held at the State House, Abuja. He implored the NLC to reconsider and suspend the planned protest, emphasizing that the President’s initial interventions were only the beginning of ongoing discussions.
The situation remains tense as both sides continue to grapple over the removal of petrol subsidy, with the NLC adamant about pressing forward with their demands for a more substantial response to the country’s economic challenges. Authorities are closely monitoring the protests to ensure public safety and prevent any potential escalation of tensions.
