The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has outlined its demands to the federal government in response to the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protests.
The demands were detailed in a communiqué signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja, following the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on Wednesday.
The NLC’s demands include:
– Policy Reversal: The NLC calls for a reversal of detrimental government policies contributing to the current economic crisis. They urge the implementation of policies that prioritize public welfare, job creation, and equitable resource distribution.
– Day of Mourning: The NEC has mandated the national leadership to designate a National Day of Mourning to honor those injured or killed in the ongoing protests.
– Accountability: The NLC demands an independent investigation into the killings and injuries of protesters. Those responsible must be held accountable, and all unlawfully detained protesters should be released immediately.
– Dialogue and Engagement: The NLC urges the federal government to engage in meaningful dialogue with protesters, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to address the issues and prevent further violence.
– Immediate Relief Measures: The government should implement urgent relief measures, including direct food aid, subsidies on essential items, and other social safety nets to ease public suffering.
– Stop Political Interference: The NEC calls on the federal government to prevent officials, particularly the Minister of Labour and the Registrar of Trade Unions, from interfering with workers’ rights and political participation. The NLC demands the withdrawal of any unsolicited advice from the Registrar of Trade Unions that could exacerbate industrial unrest.
The communique concludes by urging Nigerian workers to maintain unity and resolve in their demand for better governance, emphasizing that solidarity is crucial for achieving justice and accountability.
What about election reform,?