The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has warned that it will no longer remain silent as criminal gangs terrorise communities across the country, vowing to declare a national day of mourning and organise nationwide protests if the worsening security situation persists.
Speaking at the opening of the Congress’ National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Lagos, NLC President Joe Ajaero described the country as “under siege,” highlighting a recent school kidnapping and the controversial withdrawal of security personnel prior to the attack. He demanded a full investigation to determine whether there was any compromise within the security system.
“The NLC cannot stand idly by and allow criminals to take over our nation,” Ajaero said. “We want to know who ordered the withdrawal of security operatives from that school. We will not allow kidnappers and bandits to overrun our country.”
He added that details of the planned national mourning and protests would be announced soon, stressing that the safety of teachers, students, and workers was at stake.
Ajaero also announced the withdrawal of Labour’s representatives from the Labour Party, accusing the party of pursuing personal interests instead of genuinely representing workers.
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, who also spoke at the meeting, warned that the country was facing a critical security crisis. He urged caution against calls for foreign military intervention, saying such actions could threaten Nigeria’s sovereignty.
Falana condemned recent remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump and called on President Bola Tinubu to act decisively to protect Nigerians, asserting: “We want the world to know that we are not a conquered people.”
