The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on workers nationwide to participate in a protest against what it perceives as “anti-poor policies of the government.” The protest is scheduled for today, August 2, and the NLC demands the government to fulfill several key demands.
The six demands put forward by the NLC include immediate implementation of jointly signed resolutions with the Congress and TUC, the reversal of anti-poor policies such as the recent hike in petrol price (PMS), school fees, and Value Added Tax (VAT). Additionally, the NLC calls for the repair of local refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna, release of eight-month withheld salaries of university lecturers and workers, appropriate recognition and support to the presidential steering committee and its sub-committees, and an end to inhuman actions and policies.
The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has also joined the protest, condemning what it describes as the “draconian policies” of the Federal Government of Nigeria. While the TUC supports the removal of fuel subsidy, it demands that measures be taken to alleviate its impact on Nigerians, including fixing refineries, improving transportation systems, providing living wages, better medical facilities, and more employment opportunities.
The TUC expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s response to the public outcry, citing inadequate palliative measures and unequal distribution of funds to lawmakers and the judiciary. The Congress urges the government to prioritize attracting investors, creating jobs, and providing a conducive environment for investments.
With the protest taking place, both the NLC and TUC are voicing their concerns about the hardships faced by Nigerians and are demanding swift and effective actions from the government to address these pressing issues.
