The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) says it is going ahead with its nationwide protest today, December 17, to draw attention to the worsening security situation across the country.
The labour union said the demonstration - tagged the National Day of Protest and Mourning - aims to compel urgent action from the government and other stakeholders in response to escalating cases of killings, kidnappings, and insecurity affecting workers and citizens nationwide.
Ahead of the protest, NLC leaders warned of a potential plot to disrupt the peaceful demonstrations, saying any attack on participants would be treated as an act of terrorism and could trigger a nationwide indefinite strike.
Federal workers, under the Federal Workers Forum (FWF), have pledged support for the protest, describing the action as overdue and essential to prevent further national deterioration.
The protest, described by the NLC as a collective call for improved security and protection of lives and property, is expected to take place in major cities across Nigeria, with full mobilisation by NLC affiliates and state councils.
In Lagos and Port Harcourt, e-hailing drivers under the Amalgamated Union of App-based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) have also expressed solidarity, saying they will support the protest and prioritise a peaceful demonstration of workers’ concerns.
NLC President Joe Ajaero reiterated that the protest remains unchanged and will proceed as scheduled, even amid continued warnings and engagements with authorities.
The demonstration marks a significant step by organised labour to highlight the impact of insecurity on economic activity, workers’ safety and national development, as pressure mounts on the government for decisive action.
