May Day: NLC Assures Workers Of Safety

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has assured workers who would assemble at the Eagles Square tomorrow in Abuja for the May Day celebration of their safety.

The Chairperson of the Labour Day celebration, Mr Emma Ajoku, gave the assurance at a news conference in Abuja last Thursday.

Ajoku said that the NLC and relevant security agencies were working assiduously to ensure that the lives of workers at the May Day parade were protected.

He said that the NLC was aware of the security situation in the country, adding that the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) were working together to ensure a hitch-free celebration.

“On this particular event, we are making arrangements with relevant authorities to ensure that adequate security is guaranteed on that day.’’

He said that the occasion would be used to highlight the various struggles of the Nigerian workers.

“This will include the struggle for the National Minimum wage and the removal of the subsidy on petroleum products.

“Of course, we cannot but mention the social and economic challenges of the Nigerian workers and their families as the most vulnerable victims of the state obnoxious policies.’’

Speaking on the theme of the celebration “Right to work, Food and Education: Panacea to Insecurity,’’ Ajoku said the Nigerian workers had every reason to celebrate.

He said this year’s celebration was significant because the congress would be marking its centenary of trade unionism in Nigeria.

“As we do this, we shall be reflecting on the significant role that labour has played in the process of Nigeria’s development.

“These include the triumphs, the challenges and the travails during this 100 years journey.’’

Our correspondent reports that President Goodluck Jonathan, the Senate President, Sen. David Mark, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal among others, were expected to be guests at the event.