The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has leveled serious accusations against the Federal Government and state governors, claiming they are systematically crushing dissent, weakening democratic institutions, and unlawfully seizing workers' contributions—actions the labor union describes as "stealing workers' sweat."
NLC President Joe Ajaero made these remarks during the opening ceremony of the 21st Rain School of the NLC held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where he warned that Nigeria stands on the brink of tyranny.
Ajaero characterized Nigeria's democratic space as an arena where citizens, particularly the working class, face increasing assaults on their fundamental rights to free speech, assembly, and participation in governance.
"The ongoing clampdown on civic freedoms and union activities represents a calculated effort to silence the voices of Nigerian workers ahead of the 2027 general elections," Ajaero stated.
The labor leader further criticized the current administration and governors for abandoning governance in favor of political maneuvering for the 2027 elections. "Leaders who should be working to alleviate suffering are instead consumed by power games, leaving workers and ordinary Nigerians to bear the brunt of economic hardship and mounting insecurity, all imposed by their policies," he emphasized.
This accusation comes amid growing tensions between labor unions and various levels of government over workers' welfare, minimum wage implementation, and local government autonomy issues.
The NLC has recently been involved in disputes over land ownership with the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) and has threatened mass action over rising poverty and insecurity in the country.
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