The leadership of Organised Labour has responded to the Department of State Services (DSS) following its warning to shelve the proposed protest scheduled for February 27 and 28. The DSS had urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to reconsider their decision, citing concerns for peace across the country.
In response, NLC President Joe Ajaero criticized the DSS, stating that it should not blackmail Organised Labour or arrest those planning to participate in the protest. Ajaero emphasized that the protest aims to address the "unpardonable cost of living" in the country and that the Congress will not remain passive while Nigerians continue to suffer.
Ajaero highlighted the peaceful nature of the planned protest and expressed concern over the DSS's assumption that the protest would be violent. He also expressed skepticism over the DSS's claim that some elements intend to use the protest as an opportunity to cause chaos, noting that no arrests have been made in this regard.
The NLC President questioned the DSS's role as the government's spokesperson and expressed disappointment in the agency's lack of action against those allegedly planning violence. He reiterated the commitment of Organised Labour to peaceful protest and emphasized that the protest is a legitimate expression of concern over the country's economic situation.
