The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has advised the President Bola Tinubu administration to engage in dialogue with the organizers of the planned August 1 protest, rather than resorting to confrontation. In a statement signed by its President, Joe Ajaero, the NLC acknowledged that the initiators of the protest have genuine reasons for their grievances, citing the government's economic policies that have pushed 133 million citizens into multidimensional poverty.

The NLC highlighted the dire situation faced by many Nigerians, where the cost of living has blurred the lines between the employed and unemployed, forcing families to survive on one meal per day, with some resorting to eating from dustbins. The organized labour warned that an aggressive approach by the government could lead to unintended consequences, given the widespread anger among Nigerians.

While urging protesters to remain peaceful, the NLC also cautioned the government, saying, "You cannot smack a child and at the same time ask the child not to cry." The statement comes ahead of planned mega rallies across Nigeria on August 1, which aim to draw attention to pressing economic challenges, including starvation, hunger, insecurity, and poverty.

The NLC's call for dialogue reflects a growing concern among stakeholders that the government's response to the protests could exacerbate the situation, leading to further unrest and instability. As the August 1 deadline approaches, all eyes are on the government's next move, with many hoping for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.