Public Statement by the League for Social Justice
The League for Social Justice (LSJ) acknowledges the concerns raised by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) regarding the Nigeria Labour Congress’ (NLC) planned protest against the recent telecommunications tariff hike. However, we firmly assert that the right to peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic principle that must be protected, not criminalized or suppressed under the guise of national security.
The NLC’s planned action is a direct response to economic policies that disproportionately burden ordinary Nigerians. The tariff hike, implemented before the conclusion of the agreed review process, raises legitimate concerns about transparency, accountability, and the government’s role in protecting citizens from corporate exploitation. The right of workers and the public to express their grievances through peaceful protests and boycotts is enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights instruments.
While we recognize the importance of safeguarding critical national infrastructure, security concerns must not be used as a pretext to undermine civil liberties. Instead of deploying security forces to stifle dissent, we call on the government to engage in good-faith negotiations with organized labour to address the underlying economic hardships fueling this protest.
Our Position:
Respect for Civil Liberties: Peaceful protest is a constitutional right. The state must ensure that security agencies protect, rather than intimidate, Nigerians exercising this right.
Government Accountability: The arbitrary implementation of the tariff hike without full stakeholder engagement betrays public trust and must be rectified through proper dialogue.
Constructive Engagement: We urge both the government and telecom operators to engage meaningfully with the NLC to seek a fair resolution that prioritizes economic justice for the people.
Preventing Violence: While concerns over potential hijacking of protests by criminal elements are valid, the solution is not repression but proper crowd management and proactive security measures that distinguish between peaceful protesters and bad actors.
Nigeria’s democracy thrives when citizens can hold their leaders accountable without fear of repression. The League for Social Justice stands in solidarity with all Nigerians demanding economic fairness and urges the government to uphold justice by prioritizing dialogue over intimidation.
Signed,
League for Social Justice
Defending Democracy, Protecting Your Voice
Comments