The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has warned the Federal Government against criminalising opposing views, protests and social dialogue.

Its President, Ayuba Wabba, who gave the advice in commemoration of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration, pointed out that violent suppression of peaceful protests only sends a dangerous signal that civilisation, and indeed, Nigeria’s shared humanity, have failed. He added: “We call on the government to take utmost caution not to criminalise social dialogue. Social dialogue can only be meaningful when every party comes to the table in good faith. The government, as the custodian of the ideals of our collective civilisation, must embrace social dialogue and with utmost good faith. A peaceful protest is a form of social dialogue. Peaceful protesters must not be harassed, humiliated, brutalised, maimed, imprisoned or killed. Violent crushing of peaceful protest sends a very dangerous signal that civilisation, and indeed our shared humanity, have failed. The government, as the embodiment of our sovereignty, must ensure we never get to that point.”

While calling on aggrieved groups, ethnic nationalities and individuals to embrace peace, the central labour body declared that there cannot be development in the midst of chaos and insecurity.

Wabba maintained that government must strengthen security to rein in criminal elements, noting: “We will have no country if we all, especially workers, take out our grievances violently. This is why workers will continue to advocate for social dialogue and conciliation in dealing with social grievances, promoting social cohesion and fostering sustainable development. Violence is not excusable. Violence can never be the solution.”

On maltreatment of workers by employers and elected public officials, the congress deplored the increasing hostility and contempt against labour and members despite their sacrifices.

It observed that in spite of earning some of the lowest wages in Africa, Nigerian workers were usually the first to be laid off at the slightest economic upheaval.

The labour centre lambasted state governors for “not implementing the minimum wage.