We Demand for the Release of Arrested EndBadGovernance Protesters

The Movement for a Socialist Alternative strongly condemns the ongoing intimidation of the NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, by the Nigeria Police. The recent invasion of the NLC secretariat, coupled with his summons on allegations of terrorism financing, cybercrime, criminal conspiracy, and treasonable felony, appears to be a calculated effort to weaken and destabilize the labour movement. The attack in Imo State last year further reinforces the belief that these actions are strategically aimed at silencing opposition to the government’s anti-people policies.

We unequivocally assert that any attack on the NLC is an attack on all workers and the working people of Nigeria. The NLC embodies the collective voice of the working class, and attempts to undermine its leadership threaten the rights, welfare, and livelihoods of millions. We urge the NLC to stand resolute and continue to support the struggle of working-class youth who are courageously protesting against policies that endanger their future.

It is evident that the current regime is intent on stifling organized labour’s support for the #EndBadGovernance legitimate protests. Also, the government is attempting to intimidate unions and prevent them from challenging the growing economic hardships that the working people are enduring. This must be firmly resisted. The labour movement has a crucial role in defending the rights of the working class and must remain vigilant, united, and unwavering in the face of these oppressive tactics. The police have arrested hundreds of protesters, using this as a tool to frighten the masses from exercising their fundamental right to protest.

The government’s persistent neglect of the populace has resulted in a continuous rise in unemployment, with more companies shutting down due to economic challenges. This has worsened poverty and social unrest across the country. We demand that the government provide employment benefits for all unemployed persons to mitigate the adverse effects of joblessness.

Regarding the minimum wage, despite the new wage being signed into law, many state governors have yet to implement it. We call on labour leaders to exert pressure on both federal and state governments to immediately commence payment of the new minimum wage. The NLC and TUC must also challenge any state governor who fails to implement the N70,000 wage and ensure compliance without delay. The failure to honour this obligation is a grave injustice to the workers who continue to suffer under the burden of rising inflation and economic hardship.

We also urge the Trade Union Congress (TUC) not to remain passive while the government seeks to weaken the labour movement. The time to act and challenge any anti-people, anti-worker policies is now. Efforts to rejuvenate and strengthen the collaborative struggle of the Labor and Civil Society Coalition (LASCO) must be intensified to defend the rights and interests of the working masses. Let us stand together in solidarity and fight for a just and equitable future for all.

Signed

Aj. Dagga Tolar

General Secretary, MSA