The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have threatened to embark on a nationwide strike over insecurity if authorities fail to take decisive action to address the growing wave of violence across the country.
The labour unions issued the warning during a joint briefing at the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, where they expressed deep concern over the increasing incidents of kidnappings, banditry, terrorism, and other violent crimes affecting workers and communities nationwide.
According to the unions, insecurity has become one of the biggest challenges facing Nigerians, with many citizens now unable to travel, work, farm, or conduct business activities without fear of attack.
Labour Unions Raise Alarm Over Safety of Workers
Speaking at the conference, NLC President Joe Ajaero said organised labour would not remain silent while Nigerian workers continue to fall victim to kidnappers, bandits, and criminal groups operating across different parts of the country.
He stressed that protecting lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government, noting that workers are becoming increasingly frustrated by the persistent security challenges confronting the nation.
Labour leaders argued that the current security situation is affecting productivity and disrupting economic activities, as many workers now face significant risks while commuting to work or carrying out their daily responsibilities.
The unions maintained that the deteriorating security environment has created widespread anxiety among citizens, making it difficult for people to go about their normal lives.
Nationwide Strike Over Insecurity Looms
The NLC and TUC warned that a nationwide strike over insecurity could become inevitable if authorities fail to demonstrate stronger commitment toward tackling the crisis.
The labour centres said organised labour may be compelled to shut down economic activities across the country through industrial action as a means of drawing attention to the urgent need for improved security measures.
Their warning comes amid growing public concern over recent kidnapping incidents and violent attacks reported in several states, including the abduction of school pupils and teachers in parts of the country.
Labour leaders noted that insecurity is no longer only a security issue but has evolved into a major economic and social problem. They argued that investors, businesses, farmers, students, and workers are all being affected by the inability of many communities to operate safely.
According to the unions, no meaningful economic growth can be achieved in an environment where citizens are constantly worried about their safety. They emphasised that sustainable development requires a secure atmosphere where people can work, invest, and conduct legitimate activities without fear.
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The labour centres therefore called on the Federal Government, state governments, security agencies, and other stakeholders to intensify efforts aimed at restoring public confidence and improving safety across the country.
Although no date has been announced for the proposed industrial action, the threat of a nationwide strike over insecurity is expected to increase pressure on authorities to respond more aggressively to the country’s security challenges.
The NLC and TUC reiterated that their foremost concern remains the protection of Nigerian workers and the creation of an environment where citizens can live, travel, and earn a living without fear of violence or criminal attacks.
