The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) says it is not backing down on a nationwide protest over the hike in the pump price of petrol and other issues, describing reports suggesting otherwise as the handiwork of “fifth columnists”.
In a statement late Tuesday, the body said though it held a meeting with the Federal Government, the mass action will hold as earlier planned.
“We want to inform all Nigerians that we have just risen from a meeting with the Federal Government where we sought to get them to listen to the demands of the people and workers of Nigeria,” NLC president Joe Ajaero said in the statement.
“The outcome of this meeting earlier today has however not changed anything or the course which we have set for ourselves tomorrow as custodians of the interests and desires of Nigerian workers and people.
“Nigerians are advised to ignore the work of fifth columnists who are working hard against the wishes of the people. We urge everyone to gather in our respective states and wherever we may be across the nation to give vent to this collective resolve. ”
The body is demanding the removal of what it described as “anti-poor policies of government” including the hike in the pump price of petroleum, school fees, and VAT among others.
Meanwhile, ahead of the protest, police authorities are beefing up security across the country.
The Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun while recognizing the constitutional right to peaceful protests, appealed to the involved parties to ensure the demonstrations are not hijacked by miscreants.
