In a strong rebuke, Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Publicity, has voiced serious concerns about the nationwide protest orchestrated by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
Ngelale alleges that the protest, initially aimed at addressing economic challenges, has been manipulated by individuals pursuing a political agenda.
Speaking on Tuesday, Ngelale emphasized the perceived illegitimacy of the protest, pointing to the Trade Union Congress (TUC)’s decision not to participate as evidence.
He acknowledged the right of any labor union to address the concerns of Nigerian families but underscored the need to distinguish legitimate concerns from those leveraging the situation for political motives.
“It is right that Nigerians speak up in difficult situations,” Ngelale stated, defending the government’s efforts to alleviate public concerns.
He expressed a desire to separate the legitimate concerns raised by some labor unions from those attempting to exploit the country’s situations for political gain.
Ngelale highlighted the withdrawal of support from the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) as indications of a lack of unanimity behind the NLC’s objectives.
He expressed confidence that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is actively addressing the legitimate concerns raised by various unions.
Despite last-minute attempts by the federal government to halt the protest, which ultimately resulted in a deadlock, organized labor members flooded the streets on Tuesday.
Peaceful demonstrations took place across Nigerian cities, with members of the labor force expressing their grievances against economic hardships and inflation.
The protests saw the active participation of prominent figures, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, human rights lawyer Femi Falana, and the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore.
Their involvement adds significance to the ongoing dialogue between the government and citizens regarding the nation’s economic challenges.
As the two-day warning protest against federal government policies continues, the nation remains at a pivotal juncture, navigating a complex interplay of governance, citizen expression, and the pressing need for effective solutions to economic issues.
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