NLC Throws Weight Behind Teachers' Nationwide Strike Over Insecurity

The Nigeria Labour Congress has come out in full support of the Nigeria Union of Teachers' ongoing strike action, condemning the rising trend of kidnappings and abductions of educators, students, and pupils across the country. In a statement released by NLC President, Joe Ajaero, the labour movement expressed its solidarity with the teachers, who have been forced to take drastic measures in response to the persistent attacks on education workers and schools nationwide. Ajaero described the strike as a 'gentle but unignorable nudge' on the government to take the growing insecurity more seriously. He commended the leadership of the NUT, led by Titus Audu Amba, for their thoughtful and coordinated response to the security situation. The NLC president expressed deep concern over the safety of teachers, students, and other vulnerable workers, including local government employees and health personnel, who have become targets of criminal attacks. He also condemned the recent abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo State, describing the images of the victims as distressing. Ajaero warned that the country cannot afford to ignore the growing security challenge, stating that the labour movement would not rule out further action if authorities fail to respond effectively. He noted that organised labour has consistently raised concerns about insecurity through security summits and public protests. The NLC called on governments at all levels to move beyond assurances and take concrete steps to improve security, ending the statement with a direct appeal to authorities to 'Free the abductees now, wherever they are held!'.