The NLC Expressed Concern Over The DSS’s Request To Cancel A Planned Protest
The Nigeria Labour Congress has accused the Department of State Services (DSS) of assuming the role of the government’s spokesperson.
The NLC criticized the DSS’s appeal to prevent the planned protest against the economic situation and cost of living crises.
The NLC had previously issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, calling for the implementation of the Agreement and the resolution of the survival crisis in Nigeria.
After calling on its members to prepare for a two-day nationwide industrial action, the protest is scheduled for February 27th and 28th. In response, the DSS spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, urged dialogue and negotiation instead of actions that could escalate tensions.
Nonetheless, the NLC president, Joe Ajaero, has stated that there’s no going back on the planned industrial action, despite the DSS’s advice.
Ajaero noted that the union was “concerned by the unsolicited advice of the Department of State Security to shelve our planned protest against the unprecedented high cost of living despite the indescribable suffering in the land, spiraling inflation, deepening poverty, and the Naira at an exchange rate of N1,900 to the US Dollar.”
The NLC president expressed concern that the Service has taken on the role of the government’s main spokesperson. He advised the DSS to focus on arresting individuals planning to cause trouble during the protest, rather than assuming this new role.
He also questioned the Service’s commitment to peace, stating that they are equally patriotic and would never jeopardize the country’s sovereignty or security.
Ajaero emphasized that the union will not be intimidated by the DSS and will lead a peaceful protest to address the citizens’ suffering.
He made it clear that they will not be falsely accused or manipulated by the Service, as their protest aims to highlight the high cost of living that affects everyone, including DSS personnel.
Ajaero stressed that they cannot ignore the current situation and must take action to prevent further problems in the future.
