Urging both the Federal and State Governments to halt the “massacre” of citizens during the ongoing #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest, the Nigeria Labour Congress made a strong plea on Saturday. In a statement signed by National President Joe Ajaero and obtained by our correspondent in Abuja, the NLC criticized the deployment of security operatives to disrupt citizens peacefully protesting instead of using them against bandits.
Ajaero pointed out that it was the police, not the citizens, who introduced violence into the peaceful protests.
Protests have continued in Lagos, Oyo, Abuja, and other states as citizens demand the reversal of fuel subsidy removal and the soaring prices of goods and services in the country.
The ‘End Hunger’ protest has faced challenges with reported looting by hoodlums in Kano and other northern regions, prompting police action to recover stolen items.
The statement from Ajaero highlighted concerns about the increasing casualties, stating that the actions of security personnel towards the protesters were nothing short of a massacre, questioning their professionalism.
Expressing deep sadness over the loss of lives due to the violent reactions of some police officers, the NLC emphasized the sanctity of human life and called for accountability and justice for the victims.
The NLC emphasized the need for better crowd control measures and urged for strict disciplinary actions against officers involved in brutal acts.
Warning that if police violence persists, the NLC members will intervene to protect ordinary citizens, the statement highlighted the importance of police setting a positive example in maintaining law and order.
Monitoring the unfolding situation closely, the NLC emphasized the responsibility of the police as the leading agency in maintaining internal security to act in the best interest of the people.
Should the police persist in violent actions, the statement indicated that the organized labor would have no choice but to step in to safeguard the rights and safety of ordinary citizens.