Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has called for Nigerian leaders to deeply reflect on the widespread poverty highlighted by recent nationwide protests, which concluded on Saturday. Obi urged the government to take meaningful actions to address the country’s growing economic challenges.

Similarly, Salihu Lukman, former National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the North-West, argued that the protests against hunger and poor governance provided grounds for the impeachment of both the President and certain state governors.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) also voiced concerns, alleging that President Tinubu has engaged in the harassment and intimidation of labour leaders since taking office. The NLC claimed that the recent invasion of its headquarters was an attempt to provoke the labour movement.

These issues were detailed in a communique released following an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the NLC over the weekend. The communique, issued by NLC President Joe Ajaero, reaffirmed the Congress’ commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers. It also emphasized that the NLC would take all necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its members.

The communique stated: “The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) held an emergency meeting on Saturday, August 10, 2024, to address the invasion of the NLC National headquarters by federal security forces. This unprecedented action has raised serious concerns regarding the safety and security of Nigerian workers and the protection of trade union rights as outlined in ILO Conventions 87 and 98, as well as the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”