The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on Wednesday staged a nationwide protest to demand urgent government action on worsening insecurity and the rising cost of living, with demonstrations holding in Abuja and Lagos.
In Abuja, workers and civil society activists converged on the NLC Secretariat at Labour House, led by NLC President Joe Ajaero. Prominent activist Omoyele Sowore and members of the Revolution Now Movement were also present. The protest went ahead despite last-minute talks between President Bola Tinubu and NLC leaders on Tuesday night, which Ajaero said failed to produce an agreement to halt the action.
Simultaneously in Lagos, protesters gathered in Ikeja, carrying placards and chanting slogans calling for decisive measures to curb violent crimes, kidnappings and economic hardship. Speaking during the Lagos protest, an NLC member told News Central TV that kidnappers should face the stiffest penalties, reflecting the anger and frustration among demonstrators.
The protest followed a decision taken at the NLC’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on December 4, 2025. The union cited escalating insecurity nationwide, including the abduction of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State on November 17, during which two school staff were reportedly killed. The NEC condemned what it described as lapses in security before the attack and urged immediate intervention by authorities.
Beyond security concerns, the NLC said the demonstrations also addressed unresolved agreements with the Federal Government, the soaring cost of living and the adverse impact of insecurity on workers’ safety, productivity and livelihoods. The congress noted that many of its members—alongside teachers, farmers, miners and artisans—have lost their lives amid persistent violence.
Describing the protest as a civic responsibility, the NLC said it aims to galvanise public opinion and pressure the government to prioritise security reforms and effective governance. In a notice issued to state chapters on December 10, the union urged members to conduct peaceful demonstrations, stressing that the action is lawful and constitutionally protected.
The NLC also called on the police, who were formally notified ahead of the protest, to safeguard citizens’ right to peaceful assembly. “Solidarity is our shield,” the union said, reaffirming its commitment to non-violent advocacy for national reforms.
