… Labour union says workers are suffering under economic policies, urges Nigerians to unite against hardship
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has criticised the worsening economic and security situation in the country, saying Nigerian workers and the poor are suffering under the weight of government policies.
In a Sallah message issued on Wednesday ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, said millions of Nigerians were enduring severe hardship caused by policies that have deepened poverty and inequality.
According to the union, Nigerians should use the Eid period not only for celebration and prayer but also for political awareness, grassroots mobilisation and collective action against hardship.
The labour body argued that governance should prioritise the welfare of citizens through access to food, shelter, healthcare, education and decent jobs rather than policies focused mainly on profits.
The NLC’s position comes amid increasing criticism of economic reforms introduced by the administration of Bola Tinubu, including the removal of petrol subsidies and foreign exchange liberalisation.
While the reforms have received support from international financial institutions, the union noted that they have also contributed to rising inflation, higher transportation and food costs, and mounting pressure on household incomes.
The labour union further linked worsening insecurity, including kidnappings, banditry, communal clashes and urban violence, to what it described as failures in governance.
According to the NLC, political leaders continue to demand sacrifices from citizens while failing to show restraint in public spending and leadership conduct.
The union also signalled a stronger political stance ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that workers and ordinary Nigerians would hold leaders accountable through the ballot box.
It stressed that citizens would not forget unfulfilled promises, the alleged suppression of peaceful protests and policies it described as anti-people.
The NLC added that the next election cycle could become a turning point for workers, traders, unemployed youths and other vulnerable groups seeking change in the country.