JUST IN: “Let the poor breathe” – Organised Labour begins protests in Abuja, Kano, Lagos

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and other organised labour unions have begun peaceful protests in Abuja and Kano to denounce the recent hike in fuel prices and the government’s failure to reverse other “anti-poor” policies.

In Abuja, NLC President Joe Ajaero led a crowd of protesters to the Unity Fountain, where they chanted slogans and carried placards demanding that the government reverse the fuel price hike and address the rising cost of living.

Speaking in Abuja, Ajaero said, “Protests have taken off in all states bearing some hindrances in some places. We are aware of the Police efforts to stop the process in some areas.

“To be candid with you, nothing is stopping the protest. Based on responses from state governments, it is equally our determination whether the protest will be for today, tomorrow or next, not by using force to stop the people from expressing their views. We are here for the protest, to make a statement to Nigerians,” he said.

In Kano, Lagos, and other major cities, organised labour unions also took to the streets to protest the fuel price hike and other government policies.

The protests in Abuja, Lagos and Kano are part of a nationwide day of action organised by the NLC and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria to pressure the government to address the concerns of hike in prices due to the removal of fuel subsidy.

The tag phrase for the protest is “Let the Poor Breathe,” as displayed on their banners.