Ahead of the nationwide protests organised by the Nigeria Labour Congress, the police have deployed special forces and tactical teams across the country to ensure peaceful demonstrations and prevent any breakdown of law and order.
Police commands in several states confirmed that officers and equipment have been mobilised to protect protesters and the general public, while guarding against attempts by hoodlums or political elements to hijack the rallies. The protests are scheduled to take place today in response to worsening insecurity and broader labour-related grievances.
The NLC has insisted that the demonstrations will go ahead nationwide. According to the congress, its affiliate unions have been fully mobilised across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The union warned that any attempt to disrupt the protests or harm participants could lead to more severe nationwide action.
In a statement issued ahead of the protest, the NLC described the rallies as a peaceful and lawful civic action aimed at drawing attention to the growing insecurity, rising cost of living, unresolved agreements with the Federal Government, and the impact of economic hardship on workers’ safety and livelihoods. It emphasised that the protest is not a strike but a demand for the fundamental right to life and security.
The labour centre also called on workers, students, traders and other citizens to remain peaceful and disciplined, urging security agencies to protect the constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
Across the states, police commands said they had engaged labour leaders and deployed personnel to strategic locations. In Benue, Jigawa, Sokoto, Imo, Bayelsa, Kano, Gombe, Bauchi, Akwa Ibom and Kwara states, police authorities confirmed increased patrols, deployment of tactical units, and intelligence-led surveillance to ensure the protests remain orderly.
Some commands also disclosed plans to deploy special teams and aerial surveillance to monitor protest routes and potential flashpoints, while others said they had placed officers on alert to respond swiftly to any emerging threats.
Labour groups, including federal workers and aviation unions, have declared their support for the protests, describing them as a collective national action rather than a labour-only issue. While some workers are expected to join the demonstrations, essential services in sectors such as aviation are expected to continue, as the action does not involve withdrawal of services.
The NLC has maintained that the protests are intended to mobilise public attention and compel authorities to urgently address insecurity, governance challenges and the worsening socio-economic conditions facing Nigerians.
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