The President of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address the grievances of those planning to protest this month end into August.
Ajaero pointed out in a statement that dialogue between the government and protest organisers is crucial.
“Millions of Nigerians are suffering under the weight of economic policies that have exacerbated poverty and deprivation.
“Recent statistics paint a stark picture of the nation’s economic distress.
“The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed that approximately 133 million Nigerians live below the extreme poverty line, with the International Rescue Committee (IRC) reporting acute hunger affecting 32 million people in 2024 alone. Unemployment and underemployment further compound these hardships, pushing countless families to the brink.”
According to Ajaero, Nigerians deserve to have their voices heard without being dismissed as mere political dissenters.
He stressed that these are dire times that call for dialogue, not discord.
“There is need for compassion and understanding from the authorities,” he said
He maintained that government policies, including steep increases in fuel prices, electricity tariffs, and user fees for essential services, are “fueling the frustration among citizens.”
