By George Ozalla
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sounded the alarm over the plight of Nigerian workers, who are grappling with unprecedented hardships due to the present economic challenges.
Commemorating the 2025 International Labour Day, the NHRC Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, expressed solidarity with workers, noting that their untiring commitment continues to drive the nation’s progress despite the daunting economic realities.
According to Dr. Ojukwu, the high inflation rate has significantly wiped the purchasing power of salaries, making it significantly difficult for workers to afford basic necessities of life. The soaring cost of transportation has further compounded these challenges, often hindering workers’ ability to commute to their workplaces, thereby affecting overall productivity.
The Commission noted with great concern the harsh economic realities occasioned by the recent economic reforms, which have exacerbated poverty and rendered individuals vulnerable to preventable illnesses and deaths due to inadequate access to nutrition and healthcare.
While commending the Federal Government for some initiatives aimed at alleviating economic hardship, the NHRC called for economic reforms that prioritize human dignity, social justice, and the well-being of citizens. “Nigerians deserve policies that ensure decent work, fair wages, and access to essential services, which will enable them to live with dignity and hope for a better future,” Dr. Ojukwu stated.
The NHRC boss equally expressed concern over reports indicating that law enforcement agencies have at times suppressed peaceful protests organized by citizens and workers who attempt to draw attention to their grievances. Such actions, he said, not only contravene the constitutional right to peaceful assembly but also stifle the democratic expression of concerns vital for national development.
Dr. Ojukwu used the platform to call on the Federal Government to engage in constructive dialogue with labour unions and workers’ representatives to collaboratively address their concerns. He emphasized the need to ensure that law enforcement agencies respect and uphold citizens’ rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association in all aspects of their lives, including economic concerns.
The NHRC boss further appealed to labour unions to adopt more proactive measures in advocating for workers’ rights, serving as robust platforms for voicing workers’ concerns and negotiating better conditions on their behalf.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the rights of Nigerian workers and ensuring that their voices are heard, respected, and acted upon. The International Labour Day, Dr. Ojukwu said, serves as a strong reminder of the invaluable contribution of Nigerian workers to national development.
