Minister of Works, David Umahi, has condemned the recent nationwide protests led by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), describing it as unpatriotic, ChannelsTV reports.
Umahi’s comments were made during an inspection of the Enugu-Port Harcourt Road on Monday, where he expressed his disapproval of the NLC’s actions in response to the country’s economic challenges.
The protests, sparked by soaring inflation reaching 29.9% in February, have drawn attention to the dire economic situation and widespread hunger nationwide. However, Umahi believes the NLC’s repeated strikes within less than a year under President Bola Tinubu’s administration are unwarranted.
“It was very wrong for labour to embark on strike four times within nine months. It doesn’t show patriotism, or that they are in this country and understand the problems we are going through,” Umahi stated.
Contrary to the NLC’s stance, Umahi asserted that the government has taken proactive steps to address the economic challenges and ensure better days ahead.
“Mr. President is working and everyone will soon feel the impact of his hard work in making sure that things go well in the country,” he remarked.
Umahi highlighted the longstanding issue of insecurity, particularly the herders and farmers crisis, attributing it to past administrations. He emphasized President Tinubu’s efforts in resolving these issues.
President Tinubu has expressed discontent with the NLC’s actions, admonishing them during an official visit to Lagos State to commission the Red Line train.
“The Labour Union should understand that no matter how long we cling to our freedom and rights, the first strike within nine months of an administration is unacceptable,” President Tinubu remarked.
He urged the unions to maintain peace and suggested that if they wish to participate in the electoral process, they should wait until 2027.