The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on political leaders to use the Eid-el-Kabir celebration as an opportunity to end what it described as anti-people policies, rising poverty, and worsening insecurity across the country.
NLC President's Statement
In a statement issued yesterday to mark the Sallah celebration, NLC President Joe Ajaero said the festival of sacrifice and obedience should serve as a period of sober reflection for leaders amid the hardship faced by millions of Nigerians.
He said workers and the poor were bearing the burden of neoliberal economic policies, stressing that governance should prioritize people over profit and workers over capital.
According to him, leaders must reflect seriously on the consequences of their policy decisions on ordinary Nigerians.
“Governance is not about winning in the media or wishful thinking but about the security of lives and property and the provision of necessities of life such as food, shelter, healthcare, education and decent work,” he said.
Worsening Insecurity
Ajaero said the worsening insecurity across the country, including banditry, kidnapping, herdsmen attacks, and urban violence, reflected deep failures in governance.
“Nothing can hide the fact that millions cannot sleep with their eyes closed, nor can they travel our roads freely without fearing for their lives,” he said.
The labour leader called for unity and continued sacrifice among citizens in the effort to build a nation that serves all Nigerians.
He, however, urged political leaders to demonstrate greater sacrifice and accountability instead of demanding more from workers and citizens already struggling under harsh economic conditions.
“This season demands that our leaders search themselves and decide to work for a Nigeria that will work for the majority and not for the few who occupy high public offices,” Ajaero said.
Warning on 2027 Elections
The NLC also warned against what it described as elite-driven politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to the congress, Nigerians would not forget unfulfilled promises, the suppression of peaceful protesters, and policies that have worsened the living conditions of workers and citizens.
The labour movement added that the 2027 elections must not become “another theatre of elite-managed deception.”
