THE Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) today called for an immediate reversal of the recent fuel price increase announced by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), stating that the hike has exacerbated the suffering of Nigerians.
Amidst ongoing fuel scarcity in the country, the NNPCL raised the pump price of petrol from N568 to between N855 and N897 per litre, depending on the location.
In a statement condemning the move, NLC President Joe Ajaero accused the Federal Government of betraying the labour movement.
Ajaero demanded, “We call for the immediate reversal of the latest increase in PMS prices across the country, the release of all individuals detained or prosecuted for allegedly participating in recent protests, and an end to the indiscriminate arrest and detention of citizens on false charges. We also seek a reversal of the 250% electricity tariff hike and the cessation of the government’s takeover of the Ministry of Labour and Employment’s duties.
“We urge an end to policies that foster hunger and insecurity, a stop to the government’s culture of terror, fear, and deceit. Our actions are guided by our commitment to our country’s sovereignty, integrity, and the welfare of the people.”
Traumatic Policies
The NLC President noted that the current administration has yet to implement the new national minimum wage of N70,000.
While accusing the government of insincerity, Ajaero described the administration’s policies as traumatic.
He recounted how President Bola Tinubu offered labour leaders a choice between a new minimum wage of N250,000 or a petrol price of N1,500 per litre, which they rejected due to its potential impact on Nigerians.
“But now, barely a month later, with the government yet to start paying the new national minimum wage, we find ourselves facing a reality that is both traumatic and nightmarish.
“When we told the government that its approach to resolving the fuel subsidy issue was fundamentally flawed and unsustainable, its supporters dismissed us, claiming we lacked an understanding of basic economics.
“But in truth, this act of betrayal aligns with the character of this government. We remember the assurances given by the leadership of the National Assembly regarding the 250% tariff hike, where we were told the matter had been resolved and there was no need to engage the Minister of Power publicly,” he said.
Ajaero expressed regret that instead of the promised reversal, the tariff rate has been further increased, putting more Nigerians and businesses in jeopardy.