The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has suspended its two-day nationwide protest after achieving what it termed “overwhelming success” on the first day of the demonstration. The decision was reached at the end of the NLC’s National Executive Council meeting, where key objectives of the protest were reviewed.
The protest, aimed at addressing issues of rising inflation, food inflation, forex crisis, economic hardship, and high cost of living, was prompted by concerns over the removal of petrol subsidy.
Despite last-minute talks with the Presidency on Monday night, which ended in a stalemate, the NLC proceeded with the protest on Tuesday, grounding economic activities across the country.
Labour leader Joe Ajaero emphasized that the protest was about addressing hunger and not just advocating for a review of the minimum wage, highlighting broader economic concerns affecting all segments of society.
The NLC’s National Executive Council, in its communique, announced the suspension of street action for the second day of the protest, citing the achievement of key objectives on the first day.
While street protests have been suspended, nationwide action will continue with simultaneous press conferences across all states by the state councils of the NLC, including the National Headquarters.
The NLC extended its ultimatum to the government by another 7 days, expiring on March 13, 2024, during which the government is expected to implement previous agreements and address demands presented during the protest.
Further lines of action will be decided if the government fails to comply with the demands upon the expiration of the 14-day ultimatum.
