The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) says it is not backing down on a nationwide
protest over the hike in the pump price of petrol and other issues, describing
reports suggesting otherwise as the handiwork of “fifth columnists”.
In a statement late Tuesday, the body said though it held a meeting with the
Federal Government, the mass action will hold as earlier planned.
“We want to inform all Nigerians that we have just risen from a meeting with
the Federal Government where we sought to get them to listen to the demands
of the people and workers of Nigeria,” NLC president Joe Ajaero said in the
statement.
“The outcome of this meeting earlier today has however not changed anything
or the course which we have set for ourselves tomorrow as custodians of the
interests and desires of Nigerian workers and people.
“Nigerians are advised to ignore the work of fifth columnists who are working
hard against the wishes of the people. We urge everyone to gather in our
respective states and wherever we may be across the nation to give vent to this
collective resolve. ”
The body is demanding the removal of what it described as “anti-poor policies of
government” including the hike in the pump price of petroleum, school fees, and
VAT among others.
The Acting Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D.,
NPM, is deeply concerned about recent developments regarding planned
nationwide protests
Ahead of the protest, police authorities are beefing up security across the
country.
The Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun
while recognizing the constitutional right to peaceful protests, appealed to the
involved parties to ensure the demonstrations are not hijacked by miscreants.
“In light of this, the IGP orders the Commissioners of Police in charge of various
commands, and supervisory Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, to engage in
fruitful discussions with the NLC/TUC leadership to foster understanding and
reach common grounds on the planned protests,” Force spokesman Muyiwa
Adejobi said in a statement.
“A peaceful and coordinated approach is crucial to achieving meaningful
solutions and preventing any form of violence or disruptions to public order,
should the protests persist.”