The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed a strong sense of betrayal over the recent hike in petrol prices across the country, accusing the Federal Government of going back on its commitments. In a statement issued on Tuesday by NLC President Joe Ajaero, the union demanded an immediate reversal of the new pump prices, which have reportedly surged to between N855 and N897 per liter, depending on the location.
Ajaero emphasized that during negotiations with President Bola Tinubu, the NLC had agreed to a N70,000 minimum wage on the condition that fuel prices would not be further increased. The NLC was originally offered a choice between a N250,000 minimum wage, which would have led to a steep rise in petrol prices to between N1,500 and N2,000 per liter, or the N70,000 wage with the current prices maintained. The union chose the latter option to avoid exacerbating the economic hardships faced by Nigerians.
However, Ajaero noted that barely a month after the agreement, and with the new minimum wage yet to be implemented, the government has imposed a significant hike in petrol prices, leaving the NLC feeling both “traumatized and betrayed.”
The NLC also recalled past assurances from the National Assembly leadership regarding the reversal of a 250% hike in electricity tariffs, which has since been further increased, putting additional strain on Nigerians and businesses. The union criticized the government for its “faulty” approach to resolving fuel subsidy issues, which they had previously warned would not be sustainable.
In response to these developments, the NLC is demanding not only the reversal of the petrol price and electricity tariff hikes but also the release of individuals detained or prosecuted for participating in the recent #EndBadGovernance protests. They also called for an end to the indiscriminate arrest and detention of citizens on baseless charges, the encroachment on the duties of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, and the implementation of policies that exacerbate hunger and insecurity.
The NLC warned that its leadership would be convening in the coming days to decide on further actions, which would be announced to the public.
This development follows widespread reports of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) allegedly increasing fuel prices, despite denials from the company. However, checks at NNPCL retail stations in Abuja reportedly confirmed the new prices.
