NLC Reacts To Fuel Price Increase, Makes 7 Demands From Government.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed profound disillusionment with the federal government following a recent hike in petrol prices.
This increase, implemented by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), has led the NLC to accuse the government of betrayal, especially given their prior agreement on the new minimum wage.
Read Also : Dangote Speaks On Price Of Petrol As Refinery Begins Fuel Production
In a statement released on Tuesday, NLC President Joe Ajaero emphasized that the increase to ₦855 per litre, announced by the NNPC, comes as a severe blow.
The NLC had accepted the new minimum wage of ₦70,000 under the assurance that fuel prices would remain stable. This agreement was reached despite the wage being perceived as insufficient.
Read Also : NNPC Fuel Pump Price Now N890 Per Liter Amid Worsening Petrol Scarcity
Ajaero criticized the government’s handling of the situation, describing the price hike as traumatic and nightmarish. He condemned the Bola Tinubu administration for what he sees as a pattern of betrayal, citing instances of suppressed protests and increased hardship on Nigerians.
In response, the NLC has laid out seven demands for the government:
- Immediate reversal of the latest fuel price increase.
- Release of all individuals detained or prosecuted in connection with recent protests.
- Cessation of arbitrary arrests and detentions on false charges.
- Reversal of the 250% increase in electricity tariffs.
- Cease the encroachment into the Ministry of Labour and Employment’s responsibilities.
- End policies that exacerbate hunger and insecurity.
- Stop the government’s pattern of intimidation and deceit.
The NLC’s statement reflects deep frustration with what it views as the government’s failure to honor commitments and its aggressive tactics against dissent. The Congress asserts its resolve to stand firm alongside the public and vows not to be deterred by government actions or security agencies.
In the coming days, the NLC plans to hold meetings to deliberate on further actions and will make those decisions public.
