Despite last-minute interventions by a delegation from the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and representatives of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, the nationwide protest led by Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President Comrade Joe Ajaero went ahead on Wednesday. Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and civil society members also joined the march.

Speaking to journalists, Ajaero said the meeting with the President’s team failed to produce any solution capable of stopping the protest. He stressed that organized labour had no choice but to act in response to the escalating wave of kidnappings, killings, and general insecurity across the country.

Some participants voiced deep concern over the rising spate of abductions, insisting that kidnappers face the harshest penalties instead of what they described as official leniency. Several protesters argued that kidnapping should be treated as a capital crime.

Ahead of the protest, the NLC released a statement emphasizing that the march was more than symbolic:

“Our action today is not just a mere procession; it is a collective act of grief, a roar of despair from the oppressed, and a democratic demand for the fundamental right to life and security.”

The union lamented the deaths of numerous Nigerians—including workers, teachers, farmers, miners, and artisans—amid worsening insecurity and perceived government inaction. The NLC urged citizens, including workers, students, and traders, to remain disciplined, peaceful, and united throughout the protest, highlighting that “Solidarity is our shield.”

Authorities, including the police, who had been formally notified, were called upon to protect citizens’ democratic right to peaceful assembly and expression.

The protest followed the NLC’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on December 4, 2025, held in response to multiple national crises. During the meeting, the NEC highlighted grave concerns over the deteriorating security situation, including the abduction of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State on November 17, during which two school staff members were reportedly killed. The union condemned the withdrawal of security personnel prior to the attack and demanded urgent government intervention.

In addition to insecurity, the NLC drew attention to Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions. According to the World Bank’s Nigeria Development Update (October 2025), roughly 139 million Nigerians—61 to 62% of the population—now live in poverty, representing a sharp increase from previous years.

The congress said the protest aimed to pressure the government to take decisive action to safeguard lives, restore public confidence, and address the nation’s deepening socio-economic challenges.