In a show of anger and frustration, protesters pulled down the gate of the National Assembly in Abuja on Wednesday, as they voiced their opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s policies.
The demonstrators, led by the leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Joe Ajaero and Festus Osifo, demanded that the security officials stationed at the legislative building open the gates to allow them to express their displeasure. When their requests were ignored, the protesters forcefully entered the assembly complex to vent their anger.
The protests initiated by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and their affiliate unions began simultaneously in Abuja, Lagos, and other parts of the country. In Abuja, the protesters commenced their demonstration at the Unity Fountain before breaking down the first gate of the National Assembly complex and gaining access to the premises.
Following their entry, the protesters proceeded to the second gate of the Assembly Complex. Meanwhile, the Senators quickly went into a closed-door session as Senate President Godswill Akpabio prepared to address the demonstrators.
The grievances expressed by the Organised Labour leaders focused on what they perceive as “anti-people policies” implemented by President Bola Tinubu, specifically highlighting the removal of petrol subsidy, which has resulted in a sharp rise in the prices of essential goods and transportation.
Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, had previously called for the immediate reversal of all “anti-poor policies,” including the recent hike in petrol prices and public school fees.
Despite government representatives led by Tinubu’s chief of staff Femi Gbajabiamila engaging in discussions with the labour unions, they were unable to reach a consensus.
Amid pleas to reconsider the planned protest, Ajero said there was no going back until the government meets their demands.
“We are here for the protest and to make a statement that since we started negotiation, that there is nothing we have in our hands,” Ajero told Channels Television in Abuja.
The union leader also demanded an upward review of the minimum wage from N30,000 to N200,000 to reflect on the rising cost of living.
Tinubu, who promised to announce a new minimum wage soon on Monday, said he is confident that the fuel subsidy removal are the right decisions for the country at the moment.
“Fellow Nigerians, this period may be hard on us and there is no doubt about it that it is tough on us. But I urge you all to look beyond the present temporary pains and aim at the larger picture. All of our good and helpful plans are in the works. More importantly, I know that they will work,” Tinubu said.
“Sadly, there was an unavoidable lag between subsidy removal and these plans coming fully on line. However, we are swiftly closing the time gap. I plead with you to please have faith in our ability to deliver and in our concern for your well-being.”
Tinubu assured Nigerians that they will get out of this “turbulence” with the measures his government has taken, “Nigeria will be better equipped and able to take advantage of the future that awaits her.”
