We are not opposed to national dialogue, says NLC

Acting General Secretary of the NLC Comrade Chris Uyot stated this in a press statement, noting that the NLC has found it necessary to state in “unambiguous terms” its position on the proposed national conference.Uyot said, “The congress is not opposed to any form of national dialogue or conference or conversation as long as it […]

Acting General Secretary of the NLC Comrade Chris Uyot stated this in a press statement, noting that the NLC has found it necessary to state in “unambiguous terms” its position on the proposed national conference.
Uyot said, “The congress is not opposed to any form of national dialogue or conference or conversation as long as it is geared towards improving the quality of life of the Nigerian people, strengthening the bonds of unity, advancing the cause of democracy, building our economy, creating an enabling environment for the expression of our shared values and common heritage as well as defending our sovereignty.”
He added that the labour movement has been part of national dialogues from colonial times to post -colonial Nigeria
According to him, the labour movement played a leading role in the process and subsequent  protests that culminated in the repudiation of the Anglo-Nigeria military pact that sought to make Nigeria an out-post of the British shortly after independence by way of establishing military bases in the country.
“The congress was not only part of the national “conferences” or dialogue contrived by the military and even the civilian government of President Olusegun Obasanjo, but played a significant role, offering in the process alternative views or development agenda.
“It has no reason to shy away from any conference now. For the avoidance of doubt, the congress believes Nigerians should regularly talk to themselves as well as talk to one another. The constituent parts should as often as practicable sit down to talk, to address the ills that plague our politico-socio-economic well-being, not only at the federal level but right to the village square.
“The congress holds the view that in as much as time or timing is of essence, motive is even more significant. Congress also believes that a meaningful dialogue can be achieved by men and women of character, wisdom, integrity, patriotism as well as courage and not charlatans or hirelings.”