The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has warned that it will no longer remain passive as criminal gangs continue to terrorize communities across the country. The union announced plans to declare a national day of mourning and mobilize for nationwide protests in response to the worsening security situation.

Speaking at the opening of its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Lagos, NLC President Joe Ajaero described the nation as “under siege,” citing recent school kidnappings and the reported withdrawal of security personnel prior to the attacks. He called for a full investigation to determine if any compromise occurred within the security apparatus.

“The NLC cannot stand idly by and allow criminals to take over our country, never again,” Ajaero said. “We want to know who ordered the withdrawal of security operatives from that school. We will not allow kidnappers and bandits to overrun our nation.” He added that further details of the planned national mourning and protests would be released soon, emphasizing the urgent need to protect the lives of teachers, students, and workers.

In a related development, Ajaero announced the withdrawal of Labour’s representatives from the Labour Party, criticizing them for prioritizing personal interests over the union’s mandate.

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, also addressed the meeting, warning that Nigeria is in “serious trouble” due to the surge in kidnappings and violent attacks. He cautioned against foreign military intervention, noting that such actions could compromise the country’s sovereignty. Falana criticized comments by former US President Donald Trump as unacceptable and urged President Bola Tinubu to act decisively to defend Nigerians. “We want to let the world know that we are not a conquered people,” he stated.

Falana further called on labour unions, civil society organizations, and citizens to prepare for coordinated resistance should the security situation deteriorate further.