NLC, TUC Threaten Nationwide Stay-at-Home Order Over Rising Insecurity

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have warned that they may direct workers across the country to stay away from their workplaces if the Federal Government fails to address the worsening security situation affecting millions of Nigerians.

The warning comes amid growing concerns over kidnappings, bandit attacks, terrorism, and violent crimes that have continued to affect communities across the country. Labour leaders argue that insecurity has become one of the greatest threats to workers, economic productivity, and national development.  

Speaking during the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, NLC President Joe Ajaero said many Nigerian workers now risk their lives simply by going to work each day. According to labour leaders, teachers, healthcare workers, farmers, and other professionals increasingly face threats of abduction, attacks, and even death while carrying out their duties.  

The labour unions stated that insecurity is no longer a regional problem but a national crisis affecting economic activities, education, healthcare delivery, and food production. They warned that communities are being overrun by criminal groups while many citizens live in constant fear.  

The threat of industrial action comes as the Nigerian Senate moves to fast-track legislation that would establish state police forces. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele said lawmakers are working to accelerate consideration of the proposal, with the aim of strengthening local security structures and improving responses to crime and insecurity.  

Security concerns have intensified following recent reports of mass kidnappings, attacks on schools, and the abduction of residents in several states. Public pressure has continued to mount on the government to implement stronger measures to protect lives and property.  

Labour leaders also linked the security crisis to Nigeria’s economic challenges, arguing that businesses cannot thrive and workers cannot be productive in an environment where safety is not guaranteed. They warned that if urgent action is not taken, organised labour could be forced to adopt stronger measures to protect workers.  

The development adds to growing national debates about security reform, with many stakeholders advocating state policing, improved intelligence gathering, and stronger collaboration between federal and state authorities. As lawmakers deliberate on proposed reforms, attention will remain focused on whether the government can reassure citizens and labour unions that concrete steps are being taken to reverse the country’s security challenges.  

For now, the possibility of a nationwide stay-at-home directive from organised labour represents one of the strongest warnings yet over the impact of insecurity on Nigeria’s workforce and economy.