The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning that any attempt to violently disrupt its planned National Day of Protest and mourning on Wednesday could lead to a total and indefinite shutdown of the economy.
Intelligence Points to Planned Disruption
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Acting General Secretary of the NLC, Benson Upah, revealed that the union had received credible intelligence. This information suggests that unscrupulous agencies and desperate political hirelings are plotting to infiltrate or violently disrupt the peaceful demonstrations.
Upah stated clearly that harming even a single worker or citizen during the protest would be considered a red line. Such an act would trigger an immediate and indefinite nationwide strike across all sectors of the Nigerian economy.
A Protest Born from Grief and Insecurity
The union framed the upcoming action as far more than a simple procession. In its statement, it described the event as "a collective act of grief, a roar of despair from the oppressed, and a democratic demand for the fundamental right to life and security."
The NLC highlighted the devastating context of escalating insecurity and government inaction, which has led to the deaths of countless members, teachers, farmers, miners, and other artisans. The protest was first announced after the NLC's National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on December 4, 2025.
The NEC expressed grave concern over Nigeria's security crisis. A key incident cited was the abduction of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State on November 17, 2025, an attack where two staff members were killed. The union condemned the reported withdrawal of security personnel prior to the attack.
Economic Hardship Fuels National Anger
The protest is also a response to severe economic pressures facing ordinary Nigerians. The NLC's call to action is underscored by alarming data from the World Bank's Nigeria Development Update, released in October 2025.
The report indicates that approximately 139 million Nigerians, which is about 61–62 per cent of the population, are now living in poverty. This figure represents a sharp and troubling increase from previous years.
The NLC has called on all workers, students, traders, and citizens to participate in a disciplined, peaceful, and united manner, declaring that "Solidarity is our shield." The union has also urged the Nigerian Police Force, which has been formally notified of the protest, to fulfil its duty to protect citizens' constitutional right to peaceful assembly and expression of grievances.
