MEMBERS of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) have started assembling at the union’s secretariat in Abuja ahead of a nationwide protest against the escalating insecurity across the country.
Among those already present are NLC President, Joe Ajaero, alongside representatives of civil society groups.
Activist Omoyele Sowore and members of the Revolution Now Movement are also seen at the venue.
Security operatives, including personnel from the police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Department of State Services (DSS), have been deployed to the area.
Ajaero reaffirmed that the protest would go on as planned, stressing that it is aimed at drawing attention to the devastating impact of insecurity on Nigerians and the economy.
Speaking after a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Northern States Governors Forum and Gombe State Governor, Inuwa Yahaya, he said insecurity continues to discourage investors and deepen economic hardship.
According to him, the protest is meant to compel the government to take decisive action against insecurity, banditry, and other pressing challenges confronting the nation.
Highlighting the toll on workers, Ajaero lamented the frequent cases of kidnapping and killings, noting that many victims are workers or their family members.
He cited incidents where teachers and children of workers have been abducted, urging the government to identify and prosecute those responsible.
He also called for a reassessment of national values, describing banditry and ransom-driven kidnappings as practices alien to Nigerian culture.
Ajaero pointed out that many kidnapped workers are forced to borrow money to secure their release, sarcastically suggesting that an insecurity allowance may soon become necessary if the situation persists.
Emphasizing that the protest is the union’s peaceful contribution, Ajaero said workers lack weapons but are determined to use lawful means to alert both Nigerians and the international community that the worsening insecurity must be urgently addressed.