The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed support for the ongoing strike by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), describing the action as a necessary response to the rising wave of abductions targeting teachers, students, and other vulnerable groups across the country.
The labour centre also warned that it would not hesitate to mobilise solidarity actions if governments fail to take decisive steps to ensure the safety of citizens.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, the NLC said the nationwide industrial action reflects the determination of teachers to protect themselves amid worsening insecurity.
“The national and well-coordinated action represents the resolve of teachers to take their destiny into their hands instead of waiting to be slaughtered to the last person,” the statement read.
The Congress noted that the strike should serve as a strong signal to governments at all levels to urgently address the deteriorating security situation in the country.
It added: “The action equally represents a gentle but unignorable nudge on the governments to take more seriously the growing insecurity industry.”
The NLC warned that Nigeria can no longer afford to treat the security crisis with indifference, noting that cases of kidnapping and banditry have spread across various regions.
While acknowledging the efforts of security agencies in Oyo State and other parts of the country, the Congress urged governments to go beyond routine assurances and adopt practical, measurable solutions to curb insecurity.
“We once again call on governments at all levels to rise beyond the ritual of ‘we are on top of the situation’ and condolence messages to concrete and measurable action,” it said.
The labour union also demanded the immediate rescue of all abducted victims, declaring: “Free the abductees now, wherever they are held!”
