From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has demanded immediate apology from the Federal Government over the recent invasion of its headquarters in Abuja by security operatives.
NLC in a communique issued after its National Executive Council meeting over the weekend, said that the invasion by the Police was a deliberate provocation by the Government and as such would not allow itself to act out of anger but to exercise caution for the greater sake of our nation.
In the document signed by NLC president, Joe Ajaero, the Congress called on the government to convene an inclusive stakeholders’ conclave to discuss the pressing issues confronting Nigeria and chart a path forward.
“NEC-in-session rejects outrightly the explanation offered by the Police as the reason for the invasion. It described it as rather an afterthought and an attempt to cover the hidden motives behind such action as it raises more questions than answers. It therefore demands a clear explanation from the Government as quickly as possible,” NLC said.
The workers’ body once again condemned the killing of innocent protesters who were peacefully expressing their grievances against the harsh policies of the government and demanded immediate release of detainees and trade unionists arrested either in their homes or relaxation joints.
“The NEC-in-session rejects outrightly the explanation offered by the Police as the reason for the invasion. It described it as rather an afterthought and an attempt to cover the hidden motives behind such action as it raises more questions than answers. It therefore demands a clear explanation from the Government as quickly as possible.
“The NEC calls on the government to convene an inclusive stakeholders’ conclave to discuss the pressing issues confronting Nigeria and chart a path forward that addresses the root causes of the current unrest—hunger, poverty, inflation, insecurity and widespread dissatisfaction with government policies. The NEC calls on the government to stop the blame game and instead engage in meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders to find lasting solutions to the nation’s challenges. This invasion is another attempt at intimidation thus may be a clear indication of the desperation within the government to silence dissent through force. The NEC warns that peace without justice is transient and unsustainable.
“The NEC urges the President to take decisive action by addressing the systemic issues of profligacy, waste, and mismanagement that have exacerbated the suffering of the Nigerian people. The government must listen to the voices of reason, embrace truth, and pursue a holistic overhaul of its policies. This includes distancing itself from divisive rhetoric and instead promoting national unity and restructuring,” the communique added.