The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has opted out of the planned two-day nationwide protest declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) over various challenges including the high cost of living, inflation, insecurity, and general hardship in the country.

According to the Vice-President of the TUC, Tommy Etim, the decision to protest on February 27 and 28, as announced by the NLC, was not collectively agreed upon by both unions.

In a letter dated February 19, 2024, the TUC’s Secretary-General, Dr. Nuhu Toro, conveyed the union’s stance, stating that the NLC unilaterally made the decision on the planned protest.

Confirming the letter addressed to NLC President, Mr. Joe Ajaero, Etim emphasized that the TUC could not join the protest based on the content of the letter.

This development comes amidst a warning issued by the Department of State Services (DSS) to organized Labour against the planned mass action, citing concerns that it could be hijacked.

The NLC had earlier declared a two-day protest, scheduled to begin after the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum issued to the Federal Government, which expires on February 22 (today).

The protest is in response to the alleged failure of the government to implement agreements reached on October 2, following the removal of fuel subsidy and other economic reforms, which have contributed to higher transportation costs, inflation, and overall hardship in the country.