Minister of Works David Umahi says it is unpatriotic for organised labour to hold nationwide protests over hardship in the land
His comment, made on Monday while inspecting the Enugu-Port Harcourt Road, is in reaction to the recent protests by the NLC over the precarious economic situation in the country.
Soaring inflation and the consequent cost of living and hunger across the country had led to protests with the NLC holding a nationwide strike on Tuesday last week.
Umahi, however, believes the latest protest is one too many under the less-than-a-year-old President Bola Tinubu administration.
For the minister, contrary to the position of labour and despite the current situation, the government had set things in motion for better times ahead.
He said, “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. This hunger we are talking about is not a thing of today. It dates back to the past administrations.
President Tinubu is also unhappy with the actions of organised labour.
On Thursday, two days after the NLC protest, the President chided the unions 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,”
“If you want to participate in the electoral process, wait until 2027. If not maintain peace. You are not the only voice of Nigerians.” President Tinubu said.
Demonstrations: Umahi Blasts NLC’s Frequent Industrial Action, Says Tinubu Working To Put Things Right
