The Nigerian Labor Congress (NLC) has described the federal government’s plan to pay an interim amount of N8,000 to vulnerable and low-income families in the country as “insulting Nigerians”.
The union’s national president, Joe Ajaero, made this clear in his message to workers during Wednesday’s demonstration in Abuja.,
“The 8,000 naira domestic aid: an insult to Nigerians. We call on the FG to implement the people-centred agreements reached with the unions,” said the NLC chair.
As part of efforts to alleviate difficulties in ending oil subsidies in the country, President Bola Tinubu asked the National Assembly to approve an $800 million loan for palliative and other purposes in the country.
Mr. Tinubu also said 12 million low-income families will receive 8,000 naira a month for six months from the loan, which will be increased to alleviate hardship caused by the elimination of gasoline subsidies.
The president’s plan has been criticised by many citizens who, among other concerns, claimed the amount is not sustainable and cannot complement the inflationary pressures in the country.
Many citizens have also expressed worry over “accountability and transparency” mechanisms surrounding the disbursement process.
The president’s plan drew criticism from many citizens, who claimed, among other things, that the amount was unsustainable and unable to offset inflationary pressures in the country.
Many citizens have also expressed concern about the “accountability and transparency” mechanisms surrounding the payment process.
They were chaired by Mr. Ajaero and Festus Osifo of the Trades Union Congress (TUC).
In Abuja, protesters started a peaceful protest from the Unity Fountain near the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, where they rallied for other members to join them.
From there they went to the federal Department of Justice, whereupon they all gathered outside the NASS building and waited for the leaders of the 10th Congregation to address the crowd.
They sing solidarity songs and hold banners with various inscriptions stating their demands.
