President Bola Tinubu has issued a cautionary message to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), urging them to uphold peace for the nation’s greater good. His remarks were delivered during the inauguration of the Lagos Red Line rail project on Thursday, February 29.
Tinubu sternly addressed the Union, emphasizing that despite its perceived rights and freedoms, it should refrain from confronting an administration that is merely nine months old.
Recall NLC and other affiliated unions staged protests on Tuesday, citing concerns over the escalating cost of living, inflation, insecurity, and general hardships across the country. However, the union opted to halt the two-day nationwide protest after the initial day, citing its success in achieving significant results.
During the protest, demonstrators proceeded to the National Assembly, where NLC President Joe Ajaero presented a letter outlining their demands to President Bola Tinubu through the Assembly’s leadership.
In response on Thursday, Tinubu underscored, “Allow me to throw a jab here. The Labour Union should understand that you’re not the only one with freedom & rights.”
“If you want to participate in the electoral process, meet us in 2027.
“If not, maintain peace. You’re not the only voice of Nigeria.”
The President reiterated, “There is a very bright light at the end of the tunnel. Nigeria will be out of the economic problem; we just need to persevere and work hard.”
Tinubu emphasized that the commissioning of the Red Line marked the fulfillment of a vision he conceived 25 years ago during his tenure as governor of the state. He underscored the importance of fostering greater collaboration between the Ministry of Transport and other states to advance railway infrastructure development nationwide.