The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed deep concern over the alarming figures of kidnappings, ransom payments, and loss of lives resulting from Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.
This was contained in a communiqué signed by NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja following the union’s recent National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Owerri.
The communiqué highlighted the staggering statistics that have left Nigerians reeling. Over N2.23 trillion was paid in ransoms in 2024 alone, while 614,937 Nigerians lost their lives, and 2,235,954 others were kidnapped within the year. The NLC attributed these grim figures to the government’s failure to tackle insecurity decisively.
The union noted with dismay that the majority of those affected by these tragedies are workers, whose safety and livelihoods are increasingly at risk. “The level of insecurity has become an existential threat, and the government must take urgent steps to restore public confidence and ensure the safety of lives and property,” the communiqué read.
The NLC then charged Nigerians to unite in resisting policies it described as retrogressive, which exacerbate the country’s challenges. The union emphasised the importance of building collective power to confront insecurity and economic hardships head-on.
“Co-creating a better nation in 2025 will require synergy, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to engaging and overcoming the forces holding our nation down,” the NLC stated, calling on citizens to channel their frustrations into collective action for national progress.
While commending the federal government for its donation of CNG buses, which have provided some relief to workers, the NLC reminded the Federal government of its yet-to-be-fulfilled pledge to deliver the remaining buses. The union stressed the need for the government to honour its promises to ease the economic burdens faced by Nigerians.
The labour center, further reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of workers while advocating for a future rooted in justice, equity, and national progress.
“This call for unity and action is a rallying cry for Nigerians to confront insecurity and retrogressive policies. This message underscores the need for a collaborative effort to rebuild a nation where the rule of law prevails and every citizen can thrive.” NLC added.
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