Nigeria@64: NLC calls for accountability, new era of democratic values

As Nigeria marks its 64th year of independence, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, has urged Nigerian citizens to demand accountability from the government at all levels.

In a message to mark the 2024 independence of Nigeria, Ajaero lauded the resilience and sacrifice of Nigerian workers while highlighting the repeated betrayals and corruption that have plagued the country’s political leadership.

He pointed out that for decades, Nigerians, particularly the working class, have borne the brunt of broken promises and exploitation. “The downtrodden Nigerians who bear the marks or burden of these broken promises, exploitation, and corruption should not give up hope on their country,” Ajaero emphasised.

The NLC President went on to call for change. The NLC President urged Nigerians to learn how to protest lawfully against injustices and the subversion of democratic principles. According to him, it is only through sustained pressure that the political elite will be compelled to act in the nation’s best interest.

“It should be apparent to the citizenry that the leading political elite are not ready to do the right thing except they are compelled to do so,” Ajaero said, reflecting the frustrations of millions of Nigerians who have been disappointed by a lack of meaningful change in governance.

Ajaero also warned political leaders that continued efforts to circumvent democratic institutions and principles will no longer be tolerated.

He argued that the constant undermining of democracy has led the country to its current state, and it is time for the political class to turn a new leaf.

“The consequences of their acts of commission or omission brought us this far. It is time to turn a new leaf,” he declared.

Ajaero also said his Independence celebration message is a rallying cry for Nigerians to hold their leaders accountable, signalling the potential beginning of a new era where democracy is safeguarded by the collective will of the people.

He also stated that the struggle for a just and equitable Nigeria is far from over, but the people have the power to shape the future.

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