Gbenga Hashim Calls for Labor's Role in Democracy

Dr. Gbenga Hashim, a former presidential candidate and energy entrepreneur, called on the Nigerian labor movement to actively safeguard the country's democracy during a visit with Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). Hashim described the gradual slide toward authoritarianism and stressed that the historical progress of Nigeria cannot be separated from the sacrifices made by the working class.

He highlighted the essential role of labor in sustaining democratic governance and warned that neglecting workers could weaken democratic institutions. Hashim commended the current leadership of the NLC, particularly Ajaero, for their steadfastness in defending workers' rights despite facing significant pressure.

He noted the NLC's recognition with the Arthur Svensson Prize for Trade Union Rights in Oslo, Norway, as a testament to the resilience of Nigeria's labor movement. Hashim's remarks underscored the need for unity among labor leaders and political actors to strengthen democratic institutions and ensure that governance remains people-centered.