Labour unions slam Tinubu’s political rhetoric, urge action on agreements

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has informed President Bola Tinubu that its members are uninterested in political positions, including his office.

Recall that during the inauguration of the Lagos Red Line Project, President Tinubu suggested that Labour unions should cease protests and maintain peace, asserting they are not the sole voice for Nigerians.

He advised them to wait until 2027 to engage in the electoral process.

In response, NLC President, Joe Ajaero, on Friday stated, “We are not interested in Tinubu’s position but demand the implementation of agreements reached between Labour unions and the Federal Government regarding the removal of fuel subsidy.”

Ajaero found Tinubu’s remarks concerning Labour’s role in governance inconsistent with the struggles faced by ordinary Nigerians.

“It is regrettable that the President seems oblivious of the profound hardships endured by millions of Nigerians. The pervasive hunger, unemployment, housing insecurity, and escalating costs of basic necessities such as food and healthcare demand immediate attention and decisive action.

”Yet, instead of addressing these pressing concerns, President Tinubu appears preoccupied with political calculations and future electoral prospects.”

“The NLC wishes to emphasize that our primary objective is not to vie for political positions, including that of the President. Rather, our sole focus is on advocating for effective governance that prioritizes the welfare and security of all Nigerians. We urge President Tinubu to redirect his efforts towards fulfilling this fundamental duty of public office, rather than engaging in political rhetoric,” the statement read in part.

“It is imperative that we refocus our collective energy on addressing the substantive issues that have been the subject of engagement between Labour and the government since June 2023. These include critical matters such as wage increases, social welfare programs, infrastructure development, and the revitalization of key sectors such as education and healthcare.

“In any case to avoid the dissipation of energy, it is important that we focus on the real issues because we have engaged the government since June 2023 after the subsidy is gone statement. The issues are around the non-implementation of agreements reached between us and the government.

Ajaero highlighted agreements from June 5, 2023, and October 2, 2023, expressing disappointment in the government’s failure to implement them.

He demanded accountability and tangible results, condemning divisive language and threats from Tinubu.

The NLC reaffirmed its commitment to Nigerian workers and urged Tinubu to prioritize governance over politics for a more inclusive society.