Hundreds of members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) marched through major roads in Lagos on Wednesday, staging a protest against the rising tide of insecurity across the nation and calling for urgent government intervention to protect citizens.
The demonstration, which saw workers carrying placards and chanting, centered on the direct impact of violence and crime on the workforce. Protesters stated that worsening security conditions are severely affecting worker safety and livelihoods, with many now fearful of commuting or traveling, even as the festive season approaches.
“The protester said worsening insecurity was affecting workers safety and livelihoods with many afraid to commute or travel for the festive season,” a report from the scene confirmed.
A key sentiment echoed by the marchers was a demand for tangible progress before the new year. “Security should end with year 2025,” one protester declared to the crowd. “We don’t want to go into year 2026 with insecurity, with banditry, with kidnapping. Am I speaking the minds of everyone?”
The protest highlights a growing frustration with the federal government’s response. While authorities have repeatedly stated a commitment to tackling insecurity through military operations and police reforms, labor and civil society groups argue these measures have not yielded sufficient results.
NLC spokesperson, addressing the gathering, emphasized the constitutional mandate of the government and the widespread anguish felt nationwide. “All our people all over the country are griefed over the state of insecurity in our country. We are out today to demonstrate our resolve to pressure the government to take care of our security and welfare,” the spokesperson said.
The official directly referenced the nation’s constitution, noting, “It is stated in the constitution of Nigeria that the welfare and security of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.” The spokesperson concluded with a firm assertion of national capability, stating, “This is not a matter that requires foreign invasion.”
Security has remained a persistent and major challenge in Nigeria, with frequent reports of kidnappings for ransom and violent bandit attacks plaguing several regions. Union leaders at the protest accused the government of failing to decisively address the deteriorating situation despite repeated warnings from organized labor and other segments of society.
The Lagos protest serves as a stark reminder of the daily realities facing Nigerians and underscores mounting pressure on authorities to translate promises into effective action that restores public safety.