The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has criticised the worsening economic hardship and insecurity across the country ahead of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, warning that millions of Nigerians are struggling under the weight of poverty and rising living costs.
In a Sallah message signed by NLC President, Joe Ajaero, the labour union said the festive period should serve as a moment of sober reflection for political leaders whose policies, it claimed, have deepened suffering among workers and ordinary citizens.
The congress lamented what it described as “neoliberal economic policies,” insisting that governance should focus on the welfare of citizens through access to food, shelter, healthcare, education and decent jobs.
According to the NLC, worsening insecurity including banditry, kidnappings, communal clashes and urban violence has further compounded the hardship faced by Nigerians. The union argued that many citizens can no longer travel safely or sleep peacefully due to fear of attacks.
Ajaero also accused political leaders of demanding sacrifice from citizens while failing to demonstrate accountability and restraint in governance. He urged leaders to reflect deeply on the impact of their decisions on ordinary Nigerians already battling inflation, unemployment and hunger.
The labour body further called on Nigerians to use the Eid-el-Kabir celebration not only for prayers and festivities but also for political awareness, grassroots mobilisation and national unity against policies it described as anti-people.
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the NLC warned that workers and the masses would hold political leaders accountable for unfulfilled promises and worsening living conditions, stressing that “every vote must be a weapon against hunger, insecurity and exploitation.”
