The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has given its endorsement to the forthcoming nationwide strike and mass protests scheduled for August 2nd.
The NLC’s decision comes in response to the recent increase in the pump price of petrol, a move that has been met with widespread disapproval and outcry.
During the NEC meeting held on Thursday, the members also ratified other resolutions previously reached by the Central Working Committee (CWC) of the NLC, which convened on July 25, 2023.
According to the communique signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emma Ugboaja, the NEC’s endorsement was motivated by the current socio-economic challenges faced by Nigerian workers and citizens.
The council expressed deep concern about the prevailing hardships and deprivations experienced nationwide, attributing them to the policies of the current administration.
The NEC, in alignment with the CWC’s earlier stance, highlighted the government’s lack of empathy and willingness to engage in constructive dialogue to address the concerns of the people.
Instead, the government’s decisions were viewed as favoring the wealthy at the expense of ordinary citizens.
Consequently, the NEC wholeheartedly supported the CWC’s calls for an immediate reversal of all anti-poor policies, including the hike in fuel prices, the increase in public school fees, the release of withheld salaries for university lecturers and workers, as well as the rise in value-added tax (VAT).
The council also emphasized the need for the prompt establishment of the Presidential Steering Committee, as previously agreed, to foster a nationwide coalition that gives every Nigerian a voice.
This unified front aims to mobilize civil society organizations and individuals across the country to take action and express their grievances against the government’s actions.
The NEC went a step further and issued a seven-day ultimatum to the federal government, calling for the fulfillment of their demands.
Failing to meet these demands would trigger a nationwide action commencing on August 2nd, 2023, aimed at compelling the government to reverse its anti-poor and anti-workers policies.
To ensure widespread participation, NEC directed all affiliates and State Councils to initiate immediate mobilization efforts and collaborate with other like-minded associations and individuals already active in the streets.
This collective effort seeks to send a clear message to the government about the urgent need for change.
NEC members pointed out the government’s lack of seriousness in addressing the impact of the petrol price increase, evident not only in their poorly attended meeting but also in their inadequate preparedness to address the concerns raised.
In light of this, the council established strategy committees across all states, urging affiliates and State Councils, along with civil society groups, to come together and join the protests on August 2nd, 2023, to demand government accountability and responsiveness to the needs of the Nigerian people.
