According to Channels Television, Minister of Works, David Umahi, has denounced the recent national protests organized by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), labeling them as unpatriotic. His remarks, delivered while inspecting the Enugu-Port Harcourt Road on Monday, come in response to the ongoing demonstrations by the NLC against the country's dire economic situation.
The protests, triggered by soaring inflation reaching 29.9 percent in February, have highlighted the widespread economic hardships and hunger experienced by citizens across Nigeria. Last week, the NLC staged a nationwide strike to draw attention to these pressing issues.
Umahi expressed his disapproval of the frequency of protests, particularly during the early stages of President Bola Tinubu's administration, which is less than a year old. According to him, "It was very wrong for labour to embark on strike four times within nine months. It doesn't show patriotism, or that they are in this country and understand the problems we are going through," he remarked during the inspection of the Enugu-Port Harcourt road.
Despite the challenging economic landscape, Umahi asserted that the government has taken proactive measures to address the situation and pave the way for better times ahead. He emphasized President Tinubu's commitment to improving the country's economic outlook and ensuring the well-being of its citizens.
"Mr. President is working, and everyone will soon feel the impact of his hard work in making sure that things go well in the country," Umahi stated optimistically. He also stressed the importance of agriculture in alleviating hunger, urging farmers to return to their fields while acknowledging the security concerns that may hinder agricultural activities.
Umahi pointed out the persistence of longstanding issues, such as the herders-farmers crisis, which has disrupted agricultural productivity for over a decade. However, he expressed confidence in President Tinubu's ability to address these challenges and implement lasting solutions.
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