The Department of State Services (DSS) security advice recommending that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) stop its scheduled nationwide protest has been disregarded by the latter.

 

It was earlier  reported that the NLC started organising its members on Monday in preparation for the nationwide demonstration against the country’s high cost of living that is scheduled for February 27 and 28.

 

However, the DSS advised the union to abandon the plan in the interest of peace and public order in a statement released on Wednesday by its spokesman, Peter Afunanya.

 

The planned protest has the potential to incite tension and violence in the nation, according to the Secret Service, which asked the NLC to initiate communication with the administration.

 

“The DSS further calls on parties to pursue dialogue and negotiation rather than engaging in conducts that could heighten tensions.

 

“This is more so that the Service is aware that some elements are planning to use the opportunity of the protest to foment crisis and by extension, widespread violence”, the statement said.

 

However, in a swift reaction, NLC President Joe Ajaero emphasised in a statement on Wednesday that the plan could not be reversed, citing the degree of suffering Nigerians were subjected to as a result of some current administration policies.

 

The president of the NLC urged the service to identify any person or organisation attempting to sabotage the proceedings while guaranteeing that the demonstration would be non-violent.

 

“Our protest is a peaceful one against the unpardonable cost of living of which the unserviced personnel of the Service are also victims.

 

“We cannot fold our hands and pretend all is well. That will be a grievous conspiracy that history will not forgive”, Ajaero added.