Thousands of workers and activists under the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and allied civil society groups staged a massive protest in Lagos on Wednesday morning, marching through Ikeja to the Lagos State Government House to demand urgent federal action against rampant killings, kidnappings, and banditry nationwide.

The demonstration, branded a “Day of Rage and Mourning” and part of a coordinated national push, saw protesters carrying placards with messages such as “Federal Government No More Excuses—End Insecurity Now!”, “Nigeria is Bleeding—Stop the Criminality,” and “Security is a Fundamental Human Right.”

Organisers condemned what they described as the government’s “persistent failure” to protect lives and property, citing recent attacks on churches, schools, farmers, and miners. Despite the intensity of the grievances, the march remained peaceful, with heavy police presence ensuring order.

The protest followed Tuesday’s late-night State House talks between NLC President Joe Ajaero, several governors, and President Bola Tinubu, where labour leaders pressed security concerns. While discussions were described as “fruitful,” unions proceeded with the action, leaving its full scale uncertain.

Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s office received a petition from the protesters, though no immediate response was issued. Similar rallies were held simultaneously in Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Kano, underscoring the nationwide scope of the mobilisation.

The action reflects growing public frustration amid a surge in violence across Nigeria in 2025, with calls mounting for emergency measures beyond rhetoric to restore safety and stability.