The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued demands to the federal government concerning the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests.
The demands were outlined in a communiqué signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja, following a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting.
1. Reversal of Harmful Policies: The NLC calls for the immediate reversal of government policies that have exacerbated the economic crisis and increased suffering among Nigerians. They urge the implementation of policies that prioritize public welfare, job creation, and equitable resource distribution.
2. Condemnation of Violence: The NLC strongly condemns the killing and maiming of protesters by security forces. They demand accountability for these human rights violations and the release of all peaceful protesters detained illegally.
3. Day of Mourning: The NLC has declared a day of mourning to honor those injured or killed during the protests. The specific date will be decided by the national leadership.
4. Call for Accountability: An independent investigation into the violence against protesters is demanded. The NLC insists that those responsible for the killings and injuries must be held accountable.
5. Dialogue and Engagement: The NLC urges the federal government to engage in meaningful dialogue with protest representatives, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to address the issues and end the violence. They warn that failure to do so may compel the NLC to direct its members to stay home for their safety.
6. Immediate Relief Measures: The government must provide immediate relief to alleviate the suffering of workers and the general populace, including food aid, subsidies on essential commodities, and social safety nets, ensuring these measures reach the intended beneficiaries without political interference.
7. Stop Political Meddling: The NLC demands that government officials, particularly the Minister of Labour and the Registrar of Trade Unions, refrain from meddling in the protests and workers’ rights.
They call for the immediate withdrawal of any unsolicited advice that undermines workers’ political participation rights.
8. Strengthening Solidarity: The NLC calls on all Nigerian workers to remain united and steadfast in their demands for better governance, emphasizing that solidarity is crucial for amplifying the voices of the people and demanding justice and accountability.