The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning to the Federal Government, threatening to embark on a nationwide mass protest over the escalating cost-of-living crisis, worsening insecurity, and persistent violations of workers’ rights.
Rising from its Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting held at the 12th June Cultural Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the NLC declared that Nigerian workers can no longer remain passive as the nation’s economy deteriorates and democratic institutions falter.
“The level of hardship faced by Nigerian workers and the poor has become intolerable. We will not fold our arms while the economy collapses and democracy is undermined,” the Congress stated in a communique released after the meeting.
The CWC emphasized that urgent action is needed to avoid a total breakdown of order, warning that continued economic mismanagement, growing unemployment, attacks on union leaders, and failure to implement wage agreements are pushing the country toward instability.
The NLC also highlighted the alarming rise in food prices, fuel costs, and electricity tariffs, which have severely eroded the purchasing power of ordinary Nigerians.
It further accused the government of failing to address insecurity, particularly in rural communities, where banditry and kidnappings continue to affect livelihoods and displace thousands.
“The government must act swiftly to reverse this decline or face mass action from organized labour across the country,” the union warned.
The planned protests are expected to include industrial actions, peaceful marches, and mass mobilization if the government fails to provide immediate relief measures and commit to constructive dialogue with labor unions.
