The Anambra State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress on Wednesday joined the nationwide protest organised by the labour union to demand decisive action from the Federal Government over worsening insecurity across the country.
According to The PUNCH, the protest in Anambra began at about 11:05 a.m. at the NLC Secretariat around Regina Caeli Junction in Awka and proceeded to the UNIZIK Junction, with members of affiliated labour unions participating in the rally.
Addressing protesters, the state NLC Chairman, Humphrey Nwafor, said the demonstration was aimed at drawing national attention to the deteriorating security situation and its devastating impact on workers and the general population.
“Today, the Nigeria Labour Congress, in line with the unanimous resolution of its National Executive Council, has embarked on a nationwide protest across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory,” Nwafor said.
He described the rally as “a collective cry of anguish and a patriotic call to action” in response to persistent killings, kidnappings, banditry and other violent crimes.
“The Nigerian worker can no longer remain silent in the face of relentless bloodshed and insecurity that continue to threaten lives, livelihoods and national cohesion,” he added.
According to Nwafor, insecurity has spread from rural communities to major cities, leaving citizens fearful for their safety at workplaces, on highways, in schools, markets and even in their homes.
“As the umbrella body of workers, we consider the protection of lives and property fundamental to productivity, economic stability and social progress,” he said. “A nation that cannot guarantee the safety of its citizens cannot sustain development or secure a dignified future for its workforce.”
He noted that workers have become some of the worst victims of the security crisis, with many losing colleagues, family members and sources of income.
“Businesses are shutting down, agriculture is suffering, transportation costs are rising and inflation continues to worsen, largely because of insecurity,” Nwafor said. “Once again, it is the working people and the poor who bear the heaviest burden.”
The NLC chairman stressed that the protest was peaceful and lawful, and not an attempt to confront the government.
“This rally is not an act of hostility. It is a constitutional and moral demand for urgent, coordinated action,” he said, calling on the Federal Government to strengthen security strategies, improve funding and welfare for security personnel, and deploy modern equipment to tackle criminal activities.
“The Nigeria Labour Congress remains committed to peaceful engagement, national unity and the struggle for a safer and more secure Nigeria where citizens can live and work without fear,” he added.
The Anambra protest followed similar demonstrations in Abuja, Lagos and other states, as the NLC continues to press for improved security, the resolution of outstanding labour agreements, and relief from the rising cost of living.
