The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has criticised the worsening security situation and deepening economic hardship facing Nigerians, saying millions of citizens are struggling under the weight of government policies.
In a Sallah message issued ahead of Eid-el-Kabir and signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero, the union said Nigerian workers and the poor were “bleeding under neoliberal policies” that have intensified poverty and inequality.
According to the labour body, the current economic reforms have placed severe pressure on households, forcing citizens to endure rising costs of living amid declining purchasing power.
“As we mark Eid-el-Kabir, a festival of sacrifice and obedience, the NLC reminds all Nigerians that this celebration should be different,” the statement said. “The working class and the poor majority are bleeding under the weight of neoliberal policies.”
The union urged Nigerians to use the festive period not only for religious observance but also for political education, grassroots organising, and collective action aimed at addressing economic injustice.
Joe Ajaero stressed that governance should prioritise citizens’ welfare over profit-driven policies, arguing that governments must focus on providing basic needs such as food, healthcare, education, housing and employment.
He said insecurity across the country, including banditry, kidnapping, communal clashes and urban crime, reflects deeper governance failures that have worsened living conditions.
“The worsening insecurity that now threatens the existence of our nation… is a direct indictment of our governance model,” the statement added.
The NLC also accused political leaders of imposing sacrifices on citizens while failing to demonstrate restraint in public spending and leadership conduct.
“This season demands that our leaders search for themselves and decide to work for a Nigeria that will work for the majority and not for the few who occupy high public offices,” it said.
The union’s message comes amid ongoing debates over the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, including fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange liberalisation. While these measures have been praised by international financial institutions, they have also contributed to rising inflation and increased living costs.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the NLC signalled a stronger political stance, urging citizens to use their votes to demand accountability.
“We are entering a phase where every vote must be a weapon against hunger, insecurity, and exploitation,” the union declared.
The organisation also vowed not to forget what it described as unfulfilled promises, repression of protests, and worsening hardship faced by workers.
