The Committee for Patriotic Democrats (CPD) has responded to the failed two-day nationwide protest in Nigeria organized by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) under the leadership of Joe Ajaero.
According to the CPD, it is evident that the protest was neither successful nor impactful due to a myriad of reasons, primarily stemming from the leadership style of Joe Ajaero and the lack of support and participation from key stakeholders and the general public.
CPD Chairman, Musa Hayatu Habu, stated in a Friday statement that one of the key reasons why the NLC protest failed to make a significant impact is the leadership style since the ascension of Joe Ajaero to the leadership position.
He said the NLC has been perceived as a personal empire rather than an organization addressing the broader collective concerns of the working class and the millions of citizens across Nigeria.
“Ajaero’s contentious leadership style has eroded confidence in the NLC and has led to dwindling support for the organization,” he added.
Furthermore, the exclusion of key stakeholders such as students’ groups and civil society organizations (CSOs) from the protest has raised questions about the true intentions of the NLC leadership.
Hayatu said the decision to sideline and neglect these important groups, who have traditionally supported the NLC, has further alienated the general public and eroded trust in the organization.
“The limited turnout at the protest, especially in cities like Kano, reflects the diminishing enthusiasm and support for Ajaero’s leadership.
“The lack of widespread participation indicates a lack of confidence in the NLC’s ability to effectively represent the interests of workers and the broader population.
“The NLC’s involvement in partisan politics, particularly its support for a specific candidate like Peter Obi, has further undermined its credibility and integrity.
“By aligning with a particular politician, the NLC has compromised its core mission of representing workers impartially and has alienated segments of its membership whose ideologies differ from the favored politician.
“In light of these challenges, it is imperative for the NLC to undergo a leadership change to restore faith in the organization and realign with its core objectives of improving the conditions of workers and the masses.
“The new leadership must prioritize transparency, inclusivity, and independence from external influences to regain trust and credibility among workers, employers, and the general public.
To revitalize the NLC and regain the trust of workers and Nigerians, there is an urgent need for new leadership that is transparent, committed to rebuilding trust, and free from external influences.
This new leadership should be focused on aligning with the core objectives of the NLC, centered on improving the conditions of workers and the masses, and avoiding partisan politics that undermine the organization’s credibility and effectiveness.
