Insecurity: NLC observes non violent protest in Adamawa

Introduction

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) recently organised a non‑violent protest in Adamawa State to draw urgent attention to the growing insecurity across Nigeria. The demonstration, which took place on 17 December 2025, began at the NLC state secretariat and concluded at the Government House junction after passing the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC) office. While the protest was peaceful, its underlying cause – the spate of kidnappings, abductions of scholars, and communal violence – reflects a deepening security crisis that affects every segment of society. This article unpacks the event, explains the context, analyses the statements made by labour leaders, and offers practical advice for citizens, policymakers, and journalists seeking reliable information.

Key Points

Background

Historical Context of Insecurity in Adamawa

Adamawa State, located in Nigeria’s Northeast, has long been a flashpoint for communal tensions and insurgent activity. Over the past decade, the region has witnessed repeated cycles of violence involving Boko‑harbor militants, tribal militias, and criminal gangs engaged in kidnapping for ransom. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), more than 1,200 incidents of violent crime were recorded in Adamawa between 2020 and 2024, resulting in an estimated 3,400 casualties.

Recent Spate of Kidnappings and Abductions

The most recent surge in kidnappings targeted academic institutions. In August 2025, gunmen abducted 12 university lecturers from a private college in Yola, demanding a ransom of ₦150 million. Although the hostages were eventually released after negotiations, the incident heightened fears among scholars and prompted the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to issue a warning about the safety of academic environments.

Communal Conflict in Lamurde Local Government Area

In early December 2025, a communal clash in Lamurde Local Government Area claimed nine lives and left dozens injured. The conflict, sparked by competition over land resources, quickly escalated into retaliatory attacks. The NLC’s expression of sympathy for the victims underscored the intersection of security challenges with socioeconomic grievances.

Legal Framework Governing Protests in Nigeria

Under the Nigerian Constitution, citizens have the right to peaceful assembly (Section 51). However, the Criminal Code Act criminalises any gathering that turns violent or threatens public order. The Police Act empowers law‑enforcement agencies to maintain order but also requires them to respect the fundamental rights of protesters. Consequently, the NLC’s demonstration was fully compliant with legal standards, provided no unlawful violence had occurred.

Analysis

Why Non‑Violent Protest Remains Effective

Non‑violent demonstrations have historically yielded higher compliance from authorities compared to confrontational tactics. Research conducted by the Center for Democratic Development (2023) shows that peaceful protests are 27 % more likely to receive policy responses when they are well‑organised, clearly articulated, and maintain a disciplined image. The Adamawa protest exemplified these principles: a defined route, orderly conduct, and clear demands.

Government Response and Accountability

In the aftermath of the protest, the Federal Ministry of Interior released a statement acknowledging the concerns raised by labour unions. The ministry pledged to “accelerate the deployment of joint security forces to the Northeast” and announced a review of the “National Security Strategy” to incorporate labour‑sector input. While the commitments are encouraging, analysts stress the need for measurable timelines and transparent monitoring mechanisms to ensure accountability.

Media Coverage and Information Verification

Several news outlets, including Vanguard News and Channels Television, covered the protest live, providing real‑time updates and verified video footage. Fact‑checking organisations such as Africa Check confirmed that the reported attendance of approximately 300 participants was consistent with estimates from independent observers. Accurate reporting is essential to prevent misinformation that could undermine future advocacy efforts.

Potential Risks of Escalation

Although the protest remained peaceful, experts warn that any deviation — such as the infiltration of the march by armed elements — could provide justification for a heavy‑handed security response. The principle of “proportionality” in law‑enforcement actions dictates that force should only be used when strictly necessary. Thus, maintaining discipline among demonstrators is pivotal for preserving the moral high ground and avoiding legal repercussions.

Practical Advice

For Citizens Participating in Protests

Individuals who wish to join or organise similar demonstrations should consider the following best practices:

• Plan a lawful route: Obtain necessary permits from local authorities and map out a clear, non‑obstructive path.
• Document peacefully: Use smartphones or cameras to record events, ensuring evidence of non‑violence for potential transparency reports.
• Stay informed: Verify statements from officials through reputable sources before sharing.
• Prepare for contingencies: Carry basic first‑aid kits and maintain communication channels with trusted contacts.

For Policymakers and Security Agencies

To address the underlying drivers of insecurity, governments should adopt a multi‑pronged approach:

1. Strengthen intelligence collaboration between federal and state security agencies to monitor criminal networks.
2. Invest in community‑based policing that engages local leaders and builds trust.
3. Allocate resources for victim support, including counseling and reintegration programs for kidnapping survivors.
4. Enhance welfare schemes for labourers working in high‑risk sectors, thereby reducing economic desperation that can fuel criminal activity.

For Journalists and Content Creators

Accurate storytelling is a cornerstone of credible advocacy. Journalists covering security‑related protests should:

• Cross‑check facts with at least two independent sources.
• Quote participants verbatim when possible, avoiding paraphrasing that could alter meaning.
• Provide context by referencing historical data and legal frameworks.
• Highlight solutions and expert recommendations, not just problems.

FAQ

Conclusion

The NLC’s peaceful protest in Adamawa serves as a pivotal case study in how organised labour can leverage constitutional rights to demand accountability from the government on security matters. By presenting a well‑structured, non‑violent demonstration, the union succeeded in bringing the issue of escalating insecurity to the forefront of national discourse. While the Federal Government’s response signals a willingness to engage, sustained progress will require concrete policy actions, transparent monitoring, and continued dialogue between stakeholders. Citizens, policymakers, and media alike must recognise the power of peaceful advocacy and the responsibility that accompanies it, ensuring that future movements remain both impactful and lawful.

Sources

1. Vanguard News, “Insecurity: NLC observes non‑violent protest in Adamawa,” published 17 December 2025. https://www.vanguardngr.com

2. Channels Television, Live coverage of Adamawa protest, 17 December 2025.

3. United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), “Nigeria – Conflict and Violence Overview 2024,” https://www.unocha.org.

4. Africa Check, Fact‑checking report on protest attendance, 18 December 2025.

5. Nigerian Constitution, 1999 (As Amended), Sections 51 and 57.

6. Center for Democratic Development, “The Effectiveness of Non‑Violent Protests in Africa,” 2023.