Emmanuel OchayiThe hike in fuel prices has sparked a wave of outrage across Nigeria, with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) branding President Bola Tinubu a “betrayer” of the people.
The NLC, which represents the interests of workers nationwide, expressed its strong disapproval in a statement released in Abuja on Tuesday. This came after the report by Prime Business Africa of the increase in the fuel price to N855 per litre
Join our WhatsApp Channel“We are filled with a deep sense of betrayal as the Federal Government clandestinely increases the pump price of PMS,” said Joe Ajaero, President of the NLC, in the statement. The congress accused the government of breaking its promises and implementing policies that have pushed Nigerians to their lowest point.
Fuel Prices Increase Amid Broken Promises
One of the NLC’s central grievances is the perceived breach of trust by the Federal Government. According to Ajaero, the acceptance of the N70,000 national minimum wage was based on an understanding that the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) would not be increased.
“When we agreed to the N70,000 minimum wage, it was under the assurance that fuel prices would remain stable. This increase is a complete betrayal of that understanding,” Ajaero added.
The labour union further argued that the recent policies of the government are part of “ferocious right-wing market policies” that have driven the average Nigerian into severe economic hardship. “These policies have made life unbearable for the common man, and this latest increase in fuel prices is the final straw,” the NLC stated.
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Protests Over Fuel Prices and Government Crackdown
The fuel price hike is just one of several issues the NLC has raised with the Tinubu administration. The Congress also condemned the government’s recent crackdown on protesters, including the arrest and detention of citizens on what it described as “trumped-up charges.” The NLC accused the government of encroaching on the duties of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, adding that such actions only fuel more unrest.
“Not only are Nigerians suffering from the high fuel prices, but they are also being silenced when they try to speak out. This government is using fear and intimidation to suppress dissent,” Ajaero remarked.
NLC Demands Immediate Action on Fuel Prices
The NLC has made a series of demands in response to the fuel price hike. They are calling for the immediate reversal of the fuel price increase and the release of all detained protesters. Additionally, the Congress demands a reversal of the recent 250% electricity tariff hike and a stop to the government’s encroachment on the Ministry of Labour and Employment’s duties.
“We are demanding that the government immediately reverse this fuel price hike and address the other pressing issues facing Nigerians. Failure to do so will result in further actions from the NLC,” warned Ajaero.
Prices and the Way Forward
Looking ahead, the NLC has vowed not to back down in its fight against what it perceives as the government’s oppressive policies. The Congress has promised to stand by the people and take “appropriate decisions” in the coming days. “We will not be intimidated by the government or its security agencies,” Ajaero declared.
The issue of rising fuel prices in Nigeria remains a hot topic, with the NLC positioning itself as a key voice of opposition against the current administration’s policies. As Nigerians continue to grapple with the economic implications, all eyes are on the government’s next move.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
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