Protesters break down National Assembly gate, force way into premises

Protests Intensify as Organised Labour Breaks into National Assembly Premises

The ongoing protest by Organised Labour against the “anti-people” policies of the President Bola Tinubu administration escalated on Wednesday morning, as protesters forcefully broke down the first gate of the National Assembly (NASS) complex and gained access to the premises. Subsequently, they moved towards the second gate, prompting Senators to convene for a closed-door session.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and their affiliate unions initiated the protest in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, as well as in several states across the Federation, including Lagos, Abia, Plateau, Kaduna, Kano, Rivers, Zamfara, Katsina, Cross River, Ebonyi, Enugu, Kwara, Ogun, Imo, Ondo, and Edo.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio is expected to address the protesters before the scheduled ministerial nominee screening.

NLC President, Joe Ajaero, stated that there is no intention to halt the protest, despite the government’s overtures. He emphasized that the Organised Labour will persist until they receive a satisfactory response from the government.

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, previously warned against “violent mass protests” across the country.

The protest comes in response to the removal of subsidy on petrol, resulting in a significant increase in fuel prices, soaring food prices, and general inflation, causing economic hardship for citizens.

The NLC issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding the reversal of anti-poor policies, an increase in the minimum wage, and the release of withheld salary for university lecturers and workers.

President Tinubu’s palliative measures, including salary reviews and financial support for the manufacturing sector, were criticized by the NLC as being insufficient to address the current economic hardships faced by the Nigerian population.

As the protest continues, tensions remain high, and stakeholders are closely monitoring developments. Further updates will follow.