Economic Hardship: Why NLC Shouldn’t Go Ahead With Planned Protest-NANS

The National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS), has urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), not to go ahead with its planned nationwide protest which is scheduled to begin tomorrow. 

 The NLC should not only explore alternative avenues to resolve disputes with the Federal Government but should also  prioritize national development, NANS submitted.

Recall that the NLC National President, Mr  Joe Ajaero, had insisted in a statement  he issued on Sunday that the labour unions will go ahead with plans to organize  a nationwide protest  tomorrow and Wednesday .

This will according to him be done  because of the current economic hardship in the country and the alleged government’s failure to implement the agreements reached between both parties on October 2, 2023, sequel to the removal of petrol subsidy. 

This decision followed the expiration of the 14-day ultimatum issued to the Federal Government to implement measures against economic hardship.

Team@orientactualmags.com learned that NANS Senate President, Mr  Akinteye Babatunde however urged the NLC not to go ahead with the nationwide protest and rather seek other means of resolving issues.

 While acknowledging the legitimate grievances of the workers and the need for improved working conditions, NANS however expressed concerns about the potential repercussions of the protest on academic activities and the overall welfare of citizens.

‘We are appealing to the NLC to reconsider their decision and prioritize collaboration with the government for the greater good of the nation. 

We believe that dialogue and constructive engagement are essential for addressing grievances and achieving meaningful progress in improving the welfare of workers and citizens alike.

The looming threat of a strike poses a significant risk of further exacerbating the economic challenges facing the nation and disrupting the lives of ordinary citizens, including students’ he said.

NANS also submitted that the impact of the strike action on academic activities would be devastating, especially for students, who are already grappling with various challenges within the educational system, adding that ‘disruptions to academic calendars, examinations, and other educational activities could derail the progress of students and exacerbate the already precarious situation in the education sector’.

Babatunde also expressed readiness of the apex student body to support the NLC in its advocacy efforts to dialogue with the government to address the challenges facing its workers.

‘We appeal to the NLC to prioritize the national interest above all else and seek common ground with the government to ensure the well-being and prosperity of all Nigerians’ he submitted-Team@orientactualmags.com  Do you have any information you wish to share with us? Do you want us to cover your event or programme? Kindly send SMS to 08059100286, 09094171980. Thank you