The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has raised alarms over the worsening socio-economic conditions in Nigeria, warning that workers and citizens are being forced to endure hardships they never agreed to.
The statement coincided with the Easter season, during which the Labour Party (LP) has called on Nigerians to embrace hope and the enduring lessons of faith, regardless of the nation’s current challenges.
In its Easter message, the NLC lamented rising poverty, insecurity, and governance failures, urging leaders to adopt people-oriented policies and demonstrate sacrifice in service to the populace.
The congress called on Nigerians to draw strength from the season by renewing their commitment to demand accountability and reject policies that inflict suffering, stressing that meaningful change can only be achieved through collective action and solidarity.
The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, said, “As we celebrate Easter this year, the NLC salutes the resilience and daily struggle of Nigerian workers in pursuit of dignity, justice, and a better life.
”This season is not merely a religious ritual; it is a profound moment of ideological clarity, reminding us of God’s ultimate sacrifice for humanity.”
Ajaero drew a parallel between the sacrifice of Christ and the daily struggles of Nigerian workers.
He noted that the burdens endured by citizens ranging from reduced wages to insecurity and poor governance, contrast sharply with the protected lives of leaders who enjoy security and privilege.
He urged leaders to emulate the spirit of sacrifice demonstrated by Christ, asserting that governance should serve as a platform for public service, not personal enrichment.
“Just as Christ broke the grip of darkness at Calvary, the government must dismantle poverty, insecurity, and infrastructural decay that oppress our people,” he added.
Highlighting specific economic hardships, Ajaero pointed to soaring transportation costs, unreliable electricity, and the broader disempowerment of citizens.
He stressed that these issues limit industrial growth, suffocate small businesses, and degrade living conditions.
“We demand that today’s pain be transformed into victories through policies that restore public services, address insecurity, and prioritise the welfare of the majority over elite profits,” he said.
The NLC president also called for humane governance and an end to suppression of workers’ rights, warning that leadership failing to serve the people betrays both the nation and the spirit of Easter.
“The resurrection of Jesus Christ symbolizes triumph. Nigerian workers too shall rise from poverty, exploitation, and poor governance through solidarity and organized struggle,” Ajaero said.
Meanwhile, the Labour Party (LP) urged citizens to reflect on the enduring lessons of Easter, particularly faith, sacrifice, and forgiveness, regardless of the nation’s current circumstances.
LP National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman, in her Easter message in Abuja, stressed that Christ’s resurrection is a reminder of resilience and hope in the face of adversity.
“Even in His final moments, Christ forgave His accusers and extended hope of eternal life to those around Him.
”His resurrection proves that faith and resilience will always lead to triumph,” Usman said.
She appealed to Nigerian leaders to intensify efforts to alleviate the suffering of citizens while urging individuals to uphold integrity, diligence, and patriotism.
“Whether in leadership or as citizens, we all share responsibility for shaping a more united and just society,” she said.
The LP chair wishe all Nigerians a reflective and joyous Easter celebration, encouraging them to embrace hope, forgiveness, and steadfast faith as they navigate the nation’s challenges.
