The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has said any further attempt to frustrate the process of the general elections by whatever means, a postponement or otherwise, will be stoutly resisted.
The union, in a statement by its general secretary, Dr Peter Ozo-Eson, stated that, against popular opinion and allegations of a sinister motive, INEC has been made to postpone the general elections.
He stated that the NLC was disappointed at the development, especially as it was hinged on insecurity.
The statement reads further: “We take very seriously the issue of security of Nigeria and Nigerians and we will not, for anything, advocate for putting on the line their safety. However, neither Boko Haram nor the general elections were sprung on us. We knew about both all along and we ought to have had contingency plans. This is why we find, as bogus, the excuse of insecurity.
“Now that INEC has been made to do the deed, we urge that it be the only postponement. Government should do all that is necessary to win and sustain the confidence of both Nigerians and the international community on the issue of elections, for therein lies the crux of democracy.”
The NLC further said that even though it was not at ease with the postponement, it nonetheless called on INEC to make the best use of the extension by ensuring preparations are foolproof including broadening the distribution of permanent voters cards.
He urged government to create an enabling environment, including declaring of public holidays, to enable workers collect their voter cards, and asked INEC to make the process less cumbersome.
