NLC condemns worsening economy, insecurity in Eid message

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has criticised Nigeria’s worsening economic and security conditions, saying millions of citizens are facing severe hardship under government policies it described as deepening poverty and insecurity.

In its Sallah message issued on Wednesday ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, the union said workers and vulnerable Nigerians were “bleeding under the weight of neoliberal policies” and urged political leaders to reconsider their economic decisions.

The statement was signed by the NLC President, Joe Ajaero.

“Workers and poor are bleeding” — NLC

The labour union said governance in Nigeria must prioritise citizens’ welfare, including access to food, shelter, healthcare, education, and decent employment.

“As we mark Eid-el-Kabir, a festival of sacrifice and obedience, the NLC reminds all Nigerians that this celebration should be different. The working class and the poor majority are bleeding under the weight of neoliberal policies,” the union said.

It added that economic reforms should not be pursued at the expense of the wellbeing of ordinary citizens.

The NLC’s remarks come amid ongoing debates over the impact of government policies such as fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange reforms, which authorities say are necessary to stabilise the economy and attract investment.

Rising inflation and cost of living pressure

While international financial institutions have praised Nigeria’s reform agenda, the labour union said the policies have contributed to rising inflation, increased transport fares, food price hikes, and worsening household conditions.

It argued that the benefits of the reforms have not been sufficiently felt by the majority of citizens, particularly low-income earners.

The union also linked the economic situation to worsening insecurity across the country.

Insecurity as governance failure

The NLC expressed concern over rising cases of banditry, kidnappings, communal clashes, and urban crime, describing them as signs of deeper governance challenges.

“The worsening insecurity that now threatens the existence of our nation, from banditry to kidnapping, from herdsmen bloodshed to urban violence, is a direct indictment of our governance model,” the statement read.

It called on leaders to demonstrate restraint in public spending and focus on policies that prioritise national welfare.

Political warning ahead of 2027 elections

Beyond economic concerns, the labour union issued a strong political message ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that Nigerian workers and citizens would hold leaders accountable.

It said the labour movement would not forget what it described as unmet promises, repression of protests, and worsening living conditions.

“We are entering a phase where every vote must be a weapon against hunger, insecurity, and exploitation,” the NLC said.

The union urged Nigerians to use the Eid period not only for prayers and celebration but also for political awareness, grassroots organisation, and civic engagement.