Young demonstrators, identifying themselves as staunch supporters of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, staged a solidarity march from the Unity Fountain to the National Assembly complex in Abuja, urging the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to suspend its planned protests and engage in negotiations with the Federal Government.
Clad in white T-shirts and Fez-caps with bold inscriptions proclaiming “Jagaban is working,” the demonstrators arrived at the National Assembly complex in six luxury buses, chanting solidarity songs and carrying placards with messages supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration.
Addressing reporters at the Unity Fountain, Sunday Attah, Convener of the Nigerian Civil Society Forum, criticized the NLC’s planned protests, stating, “Calling for protest against an eight-month-old government is uncalled for. The President is doing his best.
He is not a magician. All that Nigerians need at the moment is to be patient with the President.” Attah emphasized the need for patience and understanding, drawing parallels to the gestation period of a pregnancy and the gradual progress of governmental policies.
Terrence Kuanum, co-convener of the group, echoed Attah’s sentiments, arguing against the efficacy of strikes in resolving economic hardships. He stated the importance of constructive dialogue and patriotism in addressing national challenges.
Kuanum stated, “No strike can solve this problem. People go on strike to get the attention of policymakers. But in your case, you are already with the policymakers. So what is the essence of the strike?”
Despite warnings from the Department of State Services, the NLC remains resolute in its determination to proceed with planned protests against the prevailing economic conditions.
The union has commenced mobilization efforts for a nationwide protest scheduled for February 27 and 28, citing the country’s cost of living crisis. Sources indicate that the Federal Government’s failure to fulfill its commitments following the 14-day ultimatum from labor will result in the two-day nationwide protest.
In response to the Pro-Tinubu youths’ rally, the organisers emphasized their support for President Tinubu’s initiatives and policies, refuting narratives suggesting otherwise. They stated their belief in the administration’s direction and called for unity in moving the nation forward.
