The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a poignant call to President Bola Tinubu, urging the government to heed the cries of the people as the nation braces for a significant protest.
NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero emphasised the urgent need for dialogue, stating, “The truth is that millions of Nigerians are angry about the state of the national economy.”
In a statement sent to Africa Health Report on Monday highlighting the grim reality faced by many, Ajaero pointed to statistics revealing widespread poverty and hunger, with millions struggling to make ends meet.
He stressed that the current hardships go beyond mere political dissent, resonating deeply with the daily struggles of ordinary citizens. Ajaero emphasised, “All that the hurting citizens demand from their government is a listening ear and an empathetic heart.”
The NLC’s stance underscores the pressing need for government action to alleviate the suffering caused by harsh economic policies. Ajaero cautioned against hostility towards protesters, emphasising that now is the time for dialogue and understanding.
He poignantly noted, “The truth is that you cannot smack a child and at the same time ask the child not to cry.”