Despite the ban on public procession in Plateau state, members of the Nigerian Labour Congress on Tuesday came out in their hundreds for a solidarity protest with the striking Academic Staff Union of Universities(ASUU).

Our correspondent reports that Labour members, other unions, civil society groups   gathered under the Seceteriate bridge axis in Jos as early as 8am

There was also presence of security operatives in the city over the protest organised by the Nigeria Labour Congress(NLC).

Security operatives, including Police and others are at the venue to prevent breach or attack on the protesters by thugs.

Our correspondent reports that ASUU had shut all public universities and commenced its ongoing strike on February 14, after the FG failed to meet some of its demands.

It could be recalled that the Plateau state government has said the ban on public processions in the state is still in force.

Commissioner for Information and Communication, Dan Manjang in a statement made available to newsmen in Jos on Monday reads that it’s attention has been drawn to the directive by the National Headquarters of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) mobilizing State Chapters to join its planned protest in solidarity with the ongoing Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) scheduled for Tuesday 26th July 2022.

The statement also reads that while the State Government is aware that workers have a right to air their grievances, the State however wishes to remind them that the ban on is any form of procession under whatever guise is still in force in Plateau State.

The statement further added that “It is in this light therefore, that the State Government wishes to advise against the holding of the planned protest as it will be in contravention of the existing ban.”

The statement read in parts “Government thereby advises that such decision if contemplated by the State Chapter of the NLC be rescinded in the interest of peace and security of Plateau.”

“This is more so that Government will not fold its arms and watch our hard earned peace currently being enjoyed across the State jeorpardized in an event that such solidarity protest is hijacked by hoodlums for percuniary and other negative purposes.”

The office of the Head Of Civil Service, has been directed to therefore act appropriately and dialogue with Labour and its officials in the State.

The statement further reads that the Governor of the state, Simon Lalong has directed the security agencies to be on alert in an event of any eventuality and also ensure compliance with the relevant ban that prohibits such procession.

“Government enjoins all law abiding citizens to go about their normal duties without any fear of molestation as the security of their lives and property is hereby guaranteed.”