The Nigeria Labour Congress has issued one of its strongest warnings yet, threatening to mobilise millions for a nationwide protest over escalating insecurity. Speaking at the opening of the NLC National Executive Council meeting in Lagos, President Joe Ajaero declared that workers “can no longer stand idly by” as criminal gangs unleash violence across Nigeria.
Ajaero accused authorities of failing to protect citizens, citing the latest mass school kidnapping in which security operatives were reportedly withdrawn hours before the attack. He demanded an independent investigation into who authorised the withdrawal and why. “We will not allow kidnappers and bandits to overrun our nation,” he said, warning that a national day of mourning and a nationwide protest are imminent.
“We will not allow kidnappers and bandits to overrun our nation.”
The union leader added that teachers, students and workers were increasingly becoming targets, insisting that silence was no longer an option. He also announced that NLC representatives were withdrawing from the Labour Party, alleging poor representation and personal-interest-driven leadership.
“Workers can no longer stand idly by” as criminal gangs unleash violence across Nigeria.”
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, who also addressed the gathering, described Nigeria as being in “serious trouble” due to the surge in kidnappings and attacks. He rejected calls for foreign military intervention, saying such moves threatened national sovereignty. Falana also condemned recent comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump, insisting Nigerians “are not a conquered people.”
The NLC’s threat signals a potential national shutdown at a time when the country is under severe social and economic strain. With public confidence in security agencies waning, labour unions and civil society groups appear set for mass mobilisation unless the government responds swiftly.
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