Federal Government in Emergency Talks with Labor Unions to Avert Nationwide Protests
The Federal Government is currently holding a crucial emergency meeting with organized labor unions, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), in a bid to avert the planned two-day nationwide protests over the severe hardship faced by Nigerians.
The closed-door meeting, hosted by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, is underway. Mr. Segun Imohiosen, the Director of Information in OSGF, confirmed the meeting is ongoing but declined to provide further details.
Despite warnings from various quarters to reconsider the planned protests in the interest of peace, the NLC has maintained its stance and remains resolute in proceeding with the nationwide protest scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday.
The Department of State Services (DSS) was among the first to caution against the protests, with spokesman Peter Afunanya urging organized labor to engage in dialogue with government officials instead, citing potential threats to national security.
Similarly, the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, warned that the planned action by organized labor would be seen as contemptuous, pointing to two previous ex parte orders granted by the National Industrial Court.
However, members of organized labor and civil society organizations have dismissed these warnings, asserting that no amount of pressure or threats from the government would deter them from their peaceful protest plans.
In an interview with Daily Trust, Benson Upah, Head of Information at the NLC headquarters, confirmed that mobilization efforts were in full swing across the states. He emphasized that preparations had been ongoing since February 22 when the ultimatum expired, and every effort was being made to ensure a peaceful protest.
The planned protests, set to take place simultaneously across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, will be led by NLC President Joe Ajaero.
Daily Trust
