The Nigeria Police Force has taken action to seal off the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) office in Lagos State. This move comes in anticipation of the planned nationwide protest against hunger and hardship scheduled by the NLC for February 27 and 28.
At the forefront of this development is activist and national coordinator of the Education Rights Campaign (ERC), Hassan Taiwo. He shared an image on Monday morning showing armed police personnel stationed in front of the NLC headquarters in the Yaba area of Lagos State. This action has left a few comrades uncertain about the unfolding events within the building.
The NLC, having issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Nigerian government concerning widespread hardship, was resolute in organizing the protest despite warnings from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), urging its cancellation.
In response to government warnings and concerns, the NLC accused the government of planning to disrupt peaceful rallies and alleged the involvement of certain groups in inciting violence against protestors.
The NLC President stressed the right to peaceful protest, warning against the suppression of dissent or violence against peaceful protestors. The statement also highlighted concerns about potential state-sponsored terror and reaffirmed the NLC’s determination to proceed with the protest as planned.