The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) says it is continuing with its planned nationwide protest over the removal of petrol subsidy by government and the attendant harsh effects on the populace.
The NLC also says reports that it has called off the protest are false and a ploy by “fifth columnists”.
Watchers say the use of the term “fifth columnist”, may suggest a fracture in the framework of Organised Labour, which consists essentially of two components, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) which typically work side by side and hand in hand.
The NLC said in a statement late Tuesday, that it was carring on with the planned protest, despite earlier meeting with the Federal Government.
“We want to inform all Nigerians that we have just risen from a meeting with the Federal Government where we sought to get them to listen to the demands of the people and workers of Nigeria,” NLC president Joe Ajaero said in the statement.
“The outcome of this meeting earlier today (Tuesday) has however not changed anything or the course which we have set for ourselves tomorrow as custodians of the interests and desires of Nigerian workers and people.
“Nigerians are advised to ignore the work of fifth columnists who are working hard against the wishes of the people. We urge everyone to gather in our respective states and wherever we may be across the nation to give vent to this collective resolve.”
The NLC is asking for the scapping of, “anti-poor policies of government” including the hike in the pump price of petroleum, school fees, and VAT among others.
Speaking earlier in the day, Kayode Egbetokun, Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), expressed deep concern about the impending protests and pleaded with the involved parties to ensure the demonstrations remained peaceful, so as not to be hijacked by miscreants.
Acknowledging the labour unions’ right to express their grievances, Egbetokun emphasised the importance of constructive dialogue in resolving the differences.
Meanwhile, police authorities have beefed up security across the country, it is said.
Police spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, further said in a statement: “In light of this, the IGP orders the Commissioners of Police in charge of various commands, and supervisory Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, to engage in fruitful discussions with the NLC/TUC leadership to foster understanding and reach common grounds on the planned protests.
A peaceful and coordinated approach is crucial to achieving meaningful solutions and preventing any form of violence or disruptions to public order, should the protests persist.
