The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a strong criticism of Nigeria’s worsening economic and security situation, describing the condition of workers and vulnerable citizens as unbearable under what it called “anti-people policies.” The labour union warned that the growing hardship across the country could have serious political consequences as the nation approaches the 2027 general elections.

The position of the NLC was contained in its Sallah message released on Wednesday ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration. The statement, signed by the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, called on political leaders to reflect on the impact of their policies on ordinary Nigerians, urging them to use the period of sacrifice to reconsider their governance approach.

According to the union, millions of Nigerians are currently “bleeding” under the weight of economic decisions that have deepened poverty, hunger, and insecurity across the country. It stressed that governance should be centered on protecting lives and ensuring access to basic needs such as food, healthcare, education, shelter, and decent employment.

The NLC argued that current public policies appear to prioritize profit and macroeconomic targets over the welfare of citizens, particularly the working class and low-income households. It said the removal of petrol subsidy and the liberalization of the foreign exchange market—key reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration—have significantly worsened living conditions.

While the Federal Government has defended these reforms as necessary steps to stabilize the economy and attract foreign investment, the NLC insisted that the immediate impact has been devastating for ordinary Nigerians. It pointed to rising inflation, increased transportation costs, soaring food prices, and declining purchasing power as evidence of deepening economic distress.

“The working class and the poor majority are bleeding under the weight of neoliberal policies,” the union stated, warning that many families can no longer meet basic survival needs despite working full-time jobs.

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Beyond economic hardship, the NLC also raised serious concerns about the security situation in the country. It described the rising cases of kidnapping, banditry, communal clashes, herdsmen attacks, and urban crime as signs of a failing governance structure.

According to the union, insecurity has now become a daily reality for many Nigerians, further worsening poverty and restricting movement, trade, and access to essential services. It argued that no meaningful development can take place in an environment where citizens live in fear.

“The worsening insecurity that now threatens the existence of our nation… is a direct indictment of our governance model,” the statement read.

The labour body added that it is unacceptable for Nigerians to continue celebrating religious and cultural festivals under conditions of fear, hunger, and uncertainty while leaders fail to respond with urgency and accountability.

“Leadership Must Share in the Sacrifice”

The NLC used the Eid-el-Kabir season—known for sacrifice and reflection—to challenge political leaders, accusing them of demanding sacrifice from citizens while failing to demonstrate restraint in governance and public spending.

It argued that true leadership requires empathy, accountability, and personal sacrifice from those in power, not just demands placed on the population. The union called on leaders at all levels of government to rethink policies that have deepened hardship and eroded public trust.

“This season demands that our leaders search themselves and decide to work for a Nigeria that serves the majority and not the few who occupy high public offices,” it said.

Warning Ahead of 2027 Elections

In a particularly strong political message, the NLC warned that Nigerians would hold leaders accountable in the 2027 general elections. It said workers, youths, traders, artisans, and other vulnerable groups must use their votes to challenge policies that have worsened their living conditions.

According to the union, the upcoming election cycle should not be treated as routine political activity but as a decisive opportunity for citizens to demand better governance.

“We are entering a phase where every vote must be a weapon against hunger, insecurity, and exploitation,” the statement declared.

The labour body further urged Nigerians to use the Eid period not only for prayers and celebration but also for political awareness, reflection, and grassroots mobilisation. It called for a united front among the oppressed to push for reforms that prioritize human welfare over elite interests.

The NLC concluded by stressing the need for greater political consciousness among Nigerians, insisting that elections directly shape the quality of governance and daily living conditions. It urged citizens to organize and demand a system that protects the weak, secures communities, and creates opportunities for dignified living.

It added that the spirit of Eid-el-Kabir should inspire values of sacrifice, justice, compassion, and courage, especially at a time when many families are struggling with hunger, insecurity, and economic instability.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with inflation, unemployment, and rising insecurity, the NLC’s message adds to growing public debate about the direction of national policy and the burden borne by ordinary citizens.