President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday criticised the recent protest by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), cautioning the Labour movement to know that it is not the only voice of Nigerians.
The labour union, on Tuesday, embarked on a street protest across the country over the level of hardship following the removal of fuel subsidy.
Vanguard reported that the president of the NLC, Joe Ajareo, speaking with newsmen, stated that the protest was about the high level of hunger in the country and the refusal of the Tinubu-led government to come to a conclusion on a new minimum wage.
Speaking during the commissioning of the Lagos Red Line Train connecting from Agbado to Oyingbo, Tinubu stated that while the union has its rights and freedom, it’s not the only voice of the Nigerian people.
“The labour union should understand that no matter how much we cling to our freedom and rights… to call for 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.”
No going back on reforms
President Tinubu also stated that there’s no going back on the reforms made by his administration as it approaches its first year in office.
In his inaugural speech on May 29, 2023, Tinubu pronounced that “Fuel subsidy is gone,” a decision that has led to an increase in transportation among others in the country.
He also stated that his administration is focused on the people, and ready to fight corruption and smuggling “to ruin” even though it will fight back.
“I asked for this job, I cannot complain. These reforms that are ongoing, we are not looking back because it is all about the people,” he said.
“One thing I know is that there is a very bright light at the end of the tunnel.
“I agree smugglers will fight back, corruption will fight back… we will fight them to ruin.
“Corruption will go away. We will save the money for you; to educate our children; to pay for the healthcare system of our people; to pay for modern transportation system.
“The fight is on, we are not looking back. This economy, we will grow it; we will feed ourselves out of the penury and we will be happy that we did it.
“If it is corruption, we must exterminate it no matter how hard it is fighting back… no to corruption. We must adhere to our pledge. Nigeria will be out of economic problems.”
President Tinubu stated that the commissioning of the red line marked the realization of a vision he had 25 years ago when he served as governor of the state.
He also called for increased collaboration between the Ministry of Transport and other states to develop railway infrastructure nationwide.