Members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Lagos converged under the Ikeja bridge early on Tuesday to begin their two-day protest over the high cost of living in the country.
Traffic on the Awolowo Road leading to the under bridge Ikeja mounted as the protesters gathered, chanting solidarity songs and displaying placards.
Recall that the National body of the NLC had on Feb. 16 declared a two-day protest over high cost of living, fixed for Feb. 27 and Feb. 28.
The protesters were seen on Tuesday in Ikeja as early as 8.00 a.m. and there was heavy police presence also seen at the Ikeja under bridge.
Speaking before the march began at 9. 15 a.m., the Lagos State Chairman, NLC, Mrs Funmi Sessi, said that the protest was against the economic hardship faced by workers and Nigerians at large.
“The price of foodstuff has gone beyond the reach of Nigerians; the price of rice has gone up and beans as well.
“The monthly salary of workers no longer takes them home, not to talk about taking care of their families.
“We are marching to the State House of Assembly to present a letter; this protest is purely organised by the NLC, with support of some affiliate bodies” she said.
She commended the security operatives led by the Commissioner of Police of Lagos State, Mr Adegoke Fayoade, who was physically present to lead the team to ensure hoodlums do not hijack the protest.
NAN reports that security operatives including police, civil defence, neighbourhood watch and LASTMA were both at the front and back of the protesters.
This was to ensure they were protected, according to the commissioner of police’s promise.