The IGP’s Call for Proactive Measures by Police Managers Ahead of NLC Strike

Usman Alkali Baba, the Inspector General of Police, says the police are gearing up for any possible security threat during the planned industrial action by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).

The declaration was made on Monday by the IGP during a meeting held at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, where he engaged with strategic police managers.

The inspector general stated that the police would improve efforts to maintain law and order, especially as the nation prepares to mark the 2023 Democracy Day.

The IGP has emphasized the importance of police managers adopting proactive measures in anticipation of the upcoming NLC strike. Also, the Inspector General emphasized the commitment of the police to enhance their efforts in upholding law and order, particularly as the nation approaches the commemoration of the 2023 Democracy Day.

Baba urged police managers to adopt proactive measures in order to prevent any undesirable incidents from occurring.

What caused the IGP’s statement 

President Bola Tinubu in his inaugural speech on the 29th of May, said the petrol subsidy regime was over. “On fuel subsidy, unfortunately, the budget before I assumed office is that no provision is there for fuel subsidy. So, fuel subsidy is gone,” the president said.

Reacting to this pronouncement, Nigerians rushed to fill their tanks as they expected an increase in fuel prices due to the declaration and huge queues resurfaced at filling stations in some parts of Nigeria. 

Nigerians however took their frustration online bemoaning the price hikes, and trading blames on the regulators and retailers. Many also complained about increased fares for ride-hailing services with surges of over 100%.

The NLC on the other hand faulted the move by the government, adding that the removal of subsidy or fixing of the price should be done after adequate consultation. 

NLC ultimatum

Joe Ajaero, President of NLC announced after an emergency meeting with the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) in Abuja that they would go on nationwide strike from next Wednesday, 7th of June, 2023.

The President of the NLC stated that the government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited have a deadline until the following Wednesday to reinstate the previous price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol.

Ajaero highlighted that if the Federal Government fails to meet the ultimatum, it would result in an indefinite protest throughout the country.