An emergency closed-door session was convened at the National Assembly by Senate President Godswilol Akpabio in response to the arrival of protesters led by the Organised Labour. The protesters, representing the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), were demonstrating against the anti-people policies of the All Progressives Congress (APC) government, particularly the removal of subsidy on petrol.

The protesters, who arrived at the National Assembly Complex on Wednesday, pulled down the first gate as part of a nationwide mass action to voice their grievances. They expressed their dissatisfaction with the government’s removal of petrol subsidy without implementing corresponding policies to ensure local production and price control. The consequence of this policy, they argued, has resulted in unprecedented hardship and suffering for Nigerians.

In response to the protest, Senate President Akpabio appointed a committee to engage in dialogue with the protesters. The committee, led by the Senate Chief Whip, Ali Ndume, includes Senator Ireti Kingibe and Senator Tony Nwonye. The appointed committee subsequently met with the protesters at the National Assembly to address their concerns.

The protest at the National Assembly reflects the widespread discontent among the public over the removal of petrol subsidy and its impact on the lives of ordinary citizens. As the dialogue between the committee and the protesters progresses, the government faces mounting pressure to address the pressing issues raised by the Organised Labour and alleviate the hardships experienced by the Nigerian people.

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