Once more, on Sunday, the Presidential Office issued a caution to the Nigeria Labour Congress, advising against proceeding with its planned two-day national strike to protest the escalating cost of living across the nation.
In addition, law enforcement authorities have issued warnings concerning the potential interruption of business activities during the demonstration.
Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, along with the police force, delivered these cautions as 65 civil society organizations withdrew from the protest on Sunday, citing concerns over the potential for the event to be taken over by other groups, which could exacerbate the already worsening conditions.
Joe Ajaero, the NLC President, reiterated on Sunday through a statement that the demonstration would occur as scheduled on Tuesday and Wednesday.
The NLC had previously declared this national demonstration for the aforementioned days, citing the government’s alleged failure to honor commitments made following the elimination of the fuel subsidy on October 2, 2023, as the reason. This declaration came at the end of a 14-day notice given to the Federal Government to take action against the widespread hardship.
However, in response to the NLC’s intention to go ahead with the protest despite requests from various entities and groups to reconsider, Onanuga, in a conversation with The PUNCH, labeled it as “a breach of the law” and “an illegal action.”
He stated, “The attorney-general has informed the NLC’s attorney that the protest is against the law. Therefore, proceeding with the protest would violate a court order, making it an unlawful act.”
“The NLC should be mindful of this as they plan their protest,” he added, indicating that there are no plans to disrupt the protest but emphasizing the illegality of the action based on a standing court order.
Echoing the sentiments of caution, Lagos State’s Police Commissioner, Adegoke Fayoade, expressed that the police force would not tolerate any violent acts during the protest.
Adegoke, through a formal announcement, urged protesters to avoid actions that could halt business operations or impede traffic flow in the state, warning that legal actions would be taken against anyone found infringing on others’ rights during the demonstration.
The announcement emphasized, “The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Adegoke Fayoade, reassures the public that the police have implemented necessary safeguards to protect lives and property, maintain traffic flow, and ensure a peaceful atmosphere for lawful activities.”
He advised against any disruption to commercial activities or traffic, affirming the police’s commitment to upholding the rights of all individuals, including the freedom of movement and human dignity.
“CP Adegoke warns all potential protesters that any violation of other citizens’ rights will be strictly dealt with according to the law,’’ he concluded.
