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From Okwe Obi, Abuja
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has joined forces with the 2027 Accord Party presidential candidate, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, to strengthen democratic values.
The deal was struck yesterday in Abuja at the unveiling of the Movement for Democratic Renewal (MDR), a coalition aimed at strengthening democratic institutions, promoting good governance, and expanding citizen participation in Nigeria.
NLC President Joe Ajaero, represented by the Chairman, NLC FCT Council, Steven Nabayi, said organised labour was working with Hashim because of his credibility, integrity, and long-standing commitment to democratic practice in Nigeria.
According to him, labour considers Hashim a credible partner in the struggle for democratic accountability and the protection of workers’ interests.
‘We actually need such a movement because things are not going the right way in the country. Nigerians need good governance, and wherever we see initiatives to promote good governance, we are part of it,’ Nabayi said.
On his part, Hashim said the movement was established to defend democracy, strengthen institutions, and ensure governance remains responsive to the needs of ordinary Nigerians.
He commended workers, civil society organisations, youth groups, and women leaders for their continued commitment to democratic development and nation-building.
He said: ‘Our democracy should be truly representative through free and fair elections. Workers must not be left behind in the democratic process.’
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Hashim expressed concern over the economic situation in the country, noting that inflation and the depreciation of the Naira had continued to erode workers’ earnings and reduce living standards.
He advocated policies aimed at stabilising the currency, boosting productivity, encouraging local production, and strengthening energy security through increased domestic refining capacity.
In addition, he called for closer collaboration between labour, civil society, and progressive political forces, stressing that organised labour has historically played a vital role in Nigeria’s democratic struggles.
‘Labour and progressive leaders must continue to work hand in hand to protect democracy and advance the interests of the people,’ he said.
Hashim further raised concerns over insecurity and called for stronger measures to protect lives and property across the country.
The NLC Acting General Secretary, Denja Yaqub, delivered the vote of thanks, while representatives of several industrial unions attended the inauguration.
Yaqub described the MDR as a coalition of trade unionists, political actors, civil society organisations, and citizens committed to democratic inclusion, electoral integrity, constitutionalism, social justice, and the rule of law.
According to him, the movement was formed in response to growing concerns over shrinking civic space, weakening institutions, and declining public confidence in the electoral process.
