Eid-el-Fitr: Make the bloodshed stop, NLC tells political leaders
By Jeffrey Agbo
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has raised alarm over the worsening insecurity across the country, warning that Nigeria is “bleeding” even as Muslims mark the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
The congress, in a statement on Thursday signed by its President, Joe Ajaero, called on political leaders to prioritise peace and security, stressing that no ambition or interest should come at the expense of human lives.
The NLC highlighted recent bombings in Maiduguri and other incidents as evidence of a nation drifting deeper into crisis.
“As the crescent moon heralds the blessed occasion of Eid-el-Kabir, the Nigeria Labour Congress extends warm felicitations to the Muslim community and all Nigerian workers and citizens who are once again bearing the heavy burden of a nation that still operates far below its potentials,” the message read.
“This season of sacrifice commemorates the profound submission to the will of Allah and the supreme value of life. Yet, as we celebrate, our nation bleeds. The increasing bloodletting occasioned by rampaging insecurity is a stain on our collective conscience. The recent Maiduguri bombings and associated deaths remind of the quantum of evil that has taken over our nation. As the sword of Ibrahim (AS) was stayed, we demand that the swords raised against our citizens be stayed as well.”
The NLC insisted that leadership is meaningless without a living, secure population and demanded an immediate end to the ongoing bloodshed. It urged political actors to reflect on their responsibilities, stating, “You cannot govern ghosts. The highest gift you can bequeath to the citizenry is a peaceful nation.”
The labour body also called on Nigerians to embrace unity and cooperation, rejecting politics driven by violence in favor of development and stability. “Let this Sallah be a turning point. Let us reject the politics of blood and embrace the politics of bread, butter, and peace,” it said.
Ajaero concluded by urging all stakeholders to ensure that the feast of Eid-el-Kabir is matched by a lasting feast of peace, justice, and security for all Nigerians.
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