NLC urges Fed Govt to prioritise Nigerians’ welfare

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged the Federal Government to implement policies that will alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.

President of the NLC Joe Ajaero spoke in a communiqué by the NLC General-Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja, at the end of an emergency meeting in Abuja yesterday.

The communiqué was issued after an emergency meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC), to assess the welfare of workers and the general populace in light of the hardship.

Ajaero said the NEC-in-session demanded the reversal of all the ‘ill-conceived policies’ that have led to the current economic crisis. He said for accountability, NEC calls for an independent investigation into the killings and maiming of protesters.

He added: “Those responsible for these heinous acts must be held accountable, and justice must be served to the victims and their families. All the peaceful protesters held illegally and unconstitutionally in custody must be released without delay.”

Ajaero also urged the Federal Government to engage in meaningful dialogue with representatives of the protesters, civil society organisations and other stakeholders. He called on the government to implement immediate relief measures to alleviate the suffering of workers and the general populace. These, according to him, include the provision of direct food aid, subsidies on essential commodities and other social safety nets.

He said: “The NEC calls on the Federal Government to restrain its officials, especially the Minister of Labour, and the Registrar of Trade Unions, from seeking to curtail our rights as workers and trade unions to political participation.

“We demand the immediate withdrawal of that insensitive and misplaced unsolicited advice from the Registrar of Trade Unions, to avert industrial crisis.

“The NEC finally calls on all Nigerian workers to remain united and resolute in their demands for better governance. Solidarity is our strength and, together, we can amplify the voices of the people and demand justice and accountability.”

Ajaero also said NEC directs all workers to continue to keep themselves safe in the midst of the posttest as the masses try to make their voices heard.

“You must maintain our commitment to non-violence and ensure that our actions are lawful and disciplined as the people protest,” he said.