Amid escalating public frustration and economic strain in Nigeria, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address the growing discontent as a national protest looms.
NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero highlighted the urgent need for dialogue between the government and protest organizers, pointing to widespread discontent with the current economic policies. “Millions of Nigerians are grappling with the harsh impacts of policies that have deepened poverty and deprivation,” Ajaero said.
Recent data underscores the severity of the crisis. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reports that approximately 133 million Nigerians live below the extreme poverty threshold, while the International Rescue Committee (IRC) highlights that 32 million people are suffering from acute hunger in 2024 alone. Unemployment and underemployment exacerbate these issues, pushing many families to the edge.
In a statement released to journalists in Abuja on Monday evening, Ajaero emphasized that the upcoming protest is not just a political maneuver but a sincere expression of public distress and a call for effective governance. “Nigerians deserve to be heard, not dismissed as mere political agitators,” he asserted.
Ajaero condemned any aggression towards protesters, noting that such reactions fail to address the root causes of public dissatisfaction. “These are critical times that demand dialogue rather than conflict,” he remarked, calling for empathy and understanding from the authorities.
The NLC’s grievances focus on recent government actions, including sharp hikes in fuel prices, electricity tariffs, and user fees for essential services. These changes have heavily impacted ordinary Nigerians, contributing to widespread public frustration.
Ajaero also stressed the need for the government to engage empathetically with citizens’ concerns. “You cannot silence those who are suffering and expect tranquility,” he warned, advocating for a constructive approach to avoid further unrest.
 has called on President Bola Ahmed){kind=link}