Osogbo’s Business Activities Grind to a Halt Amid NLC Protest

The streets of Osogbo, Osun State, experienced a temporary standstill on Tuesday as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its affiliated groups staged a peaceful demonstration against the prevailing economic challenges gripping the nation. Led by Christopher Arapasopo, the NLC chairman in Osun State, the protesters commenced their march from Freedom Park, traversing MDS road with resounding chants decrying the policies of President Bola Tinubu.

Among the demonstrators were members of various NLC affiliate bodies, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities, the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria, and the Nigeria Union of Journalists. As the procession made its way toward Olaiya Junction, vehicular movement along the Osogbo/Gbongan road came to a halt, underscoring the magnitude of the protest’s impact.

Under the shade of Olaiya Bridge, where the protesters eventually congregated, business activities in the vicinity were brought to a standstill for over two hours. Law enforcement personnel from the police, Department of State Security, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps were notably present in significant numbers throughout the duration of the protest, ensuring order and security. Nevertheless, in other parts of the state capital, commercial operations continued uninterrupted, showcasing a dichotomy in the city’s response to the demonstration.