Tension Rises as TUC Withdraws Support for NLC’s Planned Protest: DSS Warns Against Unrest

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has distanced itself from the two-day nationwide protest declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) over issues such as the high cost of living, inflation, and insecurity. The Vice-President of TUC, Tommy Etim, revealed that the decision to protest was not collectively agreed upon, as conveyed in a letter dated February 19, 2024.

According to Etim, the NLC unilaterally set the dates for the protest without proper consultation. This development comes as the Department of State Services (DSS) issues a warning against the planned mass action, citing concerns that it could be hijacked.

The NLC had initially declared a two-day protest scheduled to commence on February 27, following the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum issued to the Federal Government. The ultimatum, given on February 8, highlighted the government’s failure to implement agreements reached in October, particularly in response to the removal of the fuel subsidy and subsequent economic reforms.

However, the rift between the NLC and TUC escalated, with TUC’s Secretary General, Dr Nuhu Toro, expressing dissatisfaction with the unilateral decision-making process. In a letter addressed to NLC President Joe Ajaero, Toro emphasized the need for collective decisions, pointing out that this was the third instance of unilateral decision-making by Ajaero.

The DSS, in a statement on Wednesday, called on the NLC to reconsider the planned protests, expressing concerns that some elements might exploit the situation for unrest and violence. The agency urged dialogue and negotiation instead of actions that could escalate tensions.

In response to the DSS advisory, NLC President Joe Ajaero accused the agency of blackmail, insisting that the planned protest is a peaceful demonstration against the high cost of living and economic challenges. Ajaero criticized the DSS for making allegations and acting as the government’s spokesperson.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government, represented by the Minister of State Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, stated that it had reviewed commitments made in the October 2, 2023 agreement with organized labor. The government highlighted progress in areas such as minimum wage payments, CNG buses, tax incentives, and efforts to enhance food security.