The federal government and the Nigerian Labour Congress remain at an impasse over a new minimum wage, with a nationwide strike looming next week.
In anticipation of potential chaos, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has ordered a massive deployment of officers across the country. This move comes after reports surfaced about planned nationwide protests by the Nigerian Labour Congress, frustrated by the government’s unwillingness to agree on a new minimum wage.
What They Are Saying
A statement released by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, explained that the police aim to ensure robust security measures are in place to prevent any breakdown of law and order. The strategy includes protecting key infrastructures and ensuring that any protests remain peaceful and lawful.
The IGP has instructed all Zonal Assistant Inspectors General of Police and State Command Commissioners of Police to collaborate with other security agencies to enforce this directive nationwide.
“No decent society would tolerate violent destruction of lives and properties in the name of a protest,” Egbetokun declared, urging parents to warn their children against being used by “disgruntled and misguided” individuals pushing for violent protests. He advised these agitators to abandon their “unpatriotic and clandestine” plans.
Why It Matters
The Nigerian Police Force has reiterated its stance: while citizens have the right to peaceful protest, any disruption or violence will be met with the full force of the law. The police will protect the rights of peaceful protesters but will not tolerate violations of others’ rights under the guise of mass protests.
Egbetokun emphasized the importance of informing the police about planned peaceful protests to ensure proper protection. Those who fail to do so should be prepared to face legal consequences.
Highlighting the criminal nature of tampering with the national grid or disrupting electricity transmission, Egbetokun recalled how the Labour Congress had plunged the country into darkness during their last protest by switching off the national grid.
“It is equally unacceptable to disrupt other critical infrastructures such as airports, hospitals, and essential services, or to engage in violent picketing,” he added.
The police are committed to maintaining law and order, ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. Any attempt to sabotage critical infrastructure, which could amount to economic sabotage, treasonable felony, and jeopardize national security, will be dealt with severely.
Bottom Line
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress are steadfast in their demands for a six-figure minimum wage from the government. With tensions running high, the coming days will reveal whether the government and labour unions can find common ground or if the nation will witness another wave of unrest.
