An indefinite national strike and wave of mass protests called by Labour unions are due to begin today to protest the removal of petrol subsidy by the Federal Government.
Labour leaders said the Abuja leg of the protest march would begin from the Berger roundabout and move to the Eagle square, signalling a potential clash with the Police who said on Saturday that no protest would be allowed at the Eagle Square or anywhere near the Three Arms Zone.
FCT Police Commissioner Mike Zuokumor said protesters would be restricted to the National Stadium car park and the Old parade Ground at Area 10 in Abuja.
But deputy president of the Nigeria Labour Congress Promise Adewusi said the Police have no right to stop protesters from using the Eagle Square.
"His job is to protect and defend us as we proceed in our protests even though we promise that it will be peaceful. Besides, we are not doing it for his convenience. We will kick off from Berger Junction in Abuja and converge at the Eagle Square," he said.
Earlier yesterday, Acting General Secretary of NLC Owei Lakemfa said in a statement the "NLC, Trades Union Congress (TUC) and civil society organisations inform the public that Berger roundabout is the meeting point for the anti-fuel price increase mass protests everyday at 8am from Monday January 9, 2012. Be there at Berger Roundabout!"
Meanwhile, NLC and the Trades Union Congress last night commended the House of Representatives for passing a resolution urging the Federal Government to suspend the increase in fuel price. But the unions, who the House also urged to suspend their planned strike, said they would go ahead nonetheless.
A joint statement signed by NLC's Lakemfa and TUC General John Kolawole said the House resolution if implemented by President Jonathan would immediately douse the "explosive tension" in the country and restore it to normalcy.
"We commend the House and its exemplary leadership for rising to the demands of the times, and in a bipartisan manner, seeking to steer the country away from a path that may have disastrous consequences," they said.
The labour movement called on the Senate to also rise up to the expectation of Nigerians by concurring with the House motion.
But they said indefinite strike, rallies and mass protests will commence across the country today. "We reiterate that the right to peaceful protest is a fundamental one which no institution or force can abridge," the statement said.
Meanwhile, Police commissioner Zuokumo yesterday said four groups sought and got police permission will carry out rallies in Abuja today.
Zuokumo said 15,000 police personnel were deployed to maintain security in the FCT during the protest.
"Though security personnel are under strict instruction to exhibit high level of professionalism, friendly disposition while monitoring the protesters, any act demonstrated with the aim of causing breach of peace, destruction of life and property or that can lead to chaos or mayhem will not be tolerated anywhere within the territory," he said.
DailyTrust
Aluta continua, victoria acerta!