Labour On Edge: NLC Exposes Scheme To Disrupt Nationwide Rally

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a “stern and final warning” to political actors and security agencies ahead of today’s nationwide protest over the country’s escalating insecurity.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the labour body said it had received “credible and disturbing intelligence” indicating that armed thugs may be hired to create chaos during the rallies, potentially providing justification for a violent crackdown.

The NLC stressed that the December 17 protests are “a collective act of grief” for the thousands of Nigerians—including teachers, farmers, miners, and artisans—who have lost their lives to banditry and kidnappings.

“Our action today is not merely a procession; it is a collective act of grief, a roar of despair from the oppressed, and a democratic demand for the fundamental right to life and security,” the statement said. “We have lost count of the members of our union who have fallen victim to the prevailing insecurity.”

The Congress warned that the peaceful nature of the protests depends on the state’s conduct.

“Should even a single worker, comrade, or citizen be harmed by these thugs or through excessive state repression, the NLC will not hesitate to declare an immediate, comprehensive, and indefinite nationwide strike,” the statement read.

The NLC said such a strike would entail a total shutdown of production, services, and all sectors of the national economy.

“The message is clear and unambiguous: any attack on our protest will be an attack on the very engine of Nigeria. The consequence will be escalation and a total shutdown,” it warned.

The Congress also called on the Nigeria Police Force to uphold its constitutional duty to protect citizens’ rights to assemble, noting that authorities have been formally notified of the protests’ locations and logistics.

“The Police, having been informed of our protests and their dynamics, must act to safeguard the democratic rights of citizens to freely assemble and express themselves. Citizens’ rights must be respected and guaranteed,” the statement said.

Acting General Secretary Benson Upah urged protesters to remain disciplined and resist provocation.

“Do not be cowed. Do not be provoked. Our protest must remain peaceful, disciplined, and massive. Solidarity is our shield,” Upah said.