NLC To Hold Nationwide Protest On December 17 Over Insecurity
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced a nationwide protest scheduled for December 17 to demand urgent government action on the country’s worsening insecurity.
The announcement came in a communiqué released on Monday after the NLC National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Lagos. The statement was signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and Acting General Secretary Benson Upah.
The NEC discussed critical national and industrial issues, including the recent abduction of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State. The council condemned the kidnapping and the killing of a school staffer during the incident, while also criticising the withdrawal of security personnel from the school prior to the attack.
Describing the surge in attacks on schools as alarming, the NLC urged the Federal Government to protect all schools, especially those in remote and vulnerable areas. The NEC also called for immediate investigation and prosecution of those responsible for security lapses.
Other issues addressed during the meeting included the crisis in tertiary education, the ongoing strike by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), and the revival of the Labour–Civil Society Coalition (LASCO). The council also expressed concern over the state of the Labour Party, urging members to realign the party with working-class principles and integrity.
The communiqué warned that continued failure by the Federal Government to tackle insecurity and other pressing issues could lead to escalated industrial actions across sectors such as health and education. It stressed that workers’ safety and welfare remain a top priority and called on citizens to support efforts for a safer nation.
The NLC assured that the December 17 protest would be peaceful but firm, aimed at compelling decisive government action. It further urged state governments and security agencies to intensify protection for vulnerable communities, particularly schools and students, warning that neglect could threaten national stability.
The NEC reaffirmed its commitment to defending workers’ rights, improving working conditions, and promoting social justice and equitable development across the country.
