Protests organized by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and affiliate unions against perceived “anti-people” policies gained momentum on Wednesday, leading the demonstrators to forcefully enter the premises of the Assembly complex after breaking down its first gate.
The protesters, in solidarity with the Organised Labour, proceeded to the second gate of the assembly complex, demanding attention to their grievances.
The mass protest, which commenced in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, saw demonstrators from various states across the Federation, including Lagos, Abia, Plateau, Kaduna, Kano, Rivers, Zamfara, Katsina, Cross River, Ebonyi, Enugu, Kwara, Ogun, Imo, Ondo, and Edo, expressing their discontent over the government’s policies.
Prior to the breach, the protesters had congregated at the Unity Fountain before marching to the National Assembly complex to draw attention to their concerns.
During the protest at the Unity Fountain, officials from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) were present. The location also witnessed a significant security presence comprising officers from the Nigeria Police Force and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).
NLC President, Joe Ajaero, told Channels Television at the venue that there is “nothing stopping the protest, not even an overture from the government”.
He said that the Organised Labour won’t shelve the protest until there is a response from the government.
Ajaero said the response from the states will determine “whether the protest will be from today, or tomorrow or next or till thy kingdom come, it is not by using force”.
“We are here for the protest and to make a statement that since we started negotiation, that there is nothing we have in our hands.”
Last week, the NLC had issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Federal Government and demanded “the immediate reversal of all anti-poor policies of the federal government including the recent hike in PMS (Premium Motor Spirit) price, increase in public school fees, the release of the eight months withheld salary of university lecturers and workers”.