The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to hold a nationwide protest on December 17 over the escalating insecurity in the country, particularly the recent spike in attacks on schools.
This decision was reached during the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the Congress held in Lagos, with a communiqué jointly signed by NLC President, Joe Ajaero, and Acting General Secretary, Benson Upah.
The NEC condemned the abduction of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State and the killing of a staff member during the incident, describing the withdrawal of security personnel from the affected school prior to the attack as gross negligence.
The statement reads, “The surge in attacks on schools is alarming. The Federal Government must act urgently to secure all educational institutions, especially those in vulnerable and remote areas.”
The NLC said it would mobilise all its affiliates and state councils for the planned protest, which it described as peaceful but resolute.
The Congress is also demanding an immediate investigation into the Kebbi incident and the prosecution of those responsible for the security lapses.
The NEC warned that failure by the Federal Government to address insecurity and other critical issues could trigger widespread industrial actions across key sectors, including health and education.
“Workers’ safety and welfare remain a top priority. Continued neglect could threaten national stability,” the NLC stated.
The meeting also deliberated on other national and industrial concerns, including the ongoing strike by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), challenges in the tertiary education sector, and the revival of the Labour–Civil Society Coalition (LASCO).
The NEC further expressed concern about the Labour Party’s current state and called for a realignment with working-class values and integrity.
The NLC urged Nigerians to join hands with organised labour in demanding a safer country, while calling on state governments and security agencies to strengthen protection for schools and other vulnerable communities.
© 2025 Naijaonpoint, a division of NOP Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]