NLC nationwide protest sees workers across Nigeria demand urgent action on rising insecurity, kidnappings, and worsening economic conditions.
Members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) gathered at the NLC Secretariat, Labour House, Abuja, on Wednesday for a nationwide protest against rising insecurity and worsening economic conditions.
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NLC President Joe Ajaero led the demonstrations, joined by civil society allies, including Omoyele Sowore and members of the Revolution Now Movement.
Similar protests were reported in Lagos, where participants carried placards and chanted slogans calling for urgent action to curb violent crimes and kidnappings.
President Bola Tinubu met with NLC leadership on Tuesday night in an effort to avert the protest. However, Ajaero told newsmen there was no resolution to stop the planned action.
The demonstration, first announced after the NLC National Executive Council meeting on December 4, 2025, addresses escalating insecurity, including the abduction of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State on November 17, during which two staff members were killed.
The union condemned the withdrawal of security personnel prior to the attack and demanded immediate government intervention.
Beyond security, the protest also highlights broader labour grievances, such as unresolved agreements with the Federal Government, the rising cost of living, and the impact of insecurity on workers’ safety and productivity.
The NLC cited deaths among teachers, farmers, miners, and artisans as evidence of escalating threats to livelihoods.
Framing the action as a civic duty, the NLC emphasised that the protest aims to mobilise public opinion and compel authorities to prioritise security and governance reforms. In a notice to state chapters on December 10, the union urged peaceful demonstrations, stressing that the action is lawful and constitutionally protected.
“The surge in kidnappings targeting schoolchildren has reached an alarming and unacceptable level,” the NEC communiqué read.
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Police were present to ensure safety during the protests, with the NLC urging authorities to protect citizens’ democratic right to assemble. “Solidarity is our shield,” the union declared.
