NLC Urges Immediate Reversal of Petrol Price Hike, Cites Betrayal
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has demanded the immediate reversal of the recent hike in petrol pump prices across the country. In a statement issued on Tuesday by NLC President Joe Ajaero, the union expressed strong discontent with the sharp increase, calling it a betrayal of trust.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (NNPCL) reportedly raised petrol prices from N568 – N617 per litre to between N855 – N897 per litre, depending on the location. Although the NNPCL has denied issuing the directive, checks at several retail stations in Abuja showed the new price of N897 per litre.
Reacting to the development, Ajaero stated that the NLC felt deceived, especially after agreeing to the N70,000 minimum wage based on the assurance that petrol prices would remain stable. He explained that during previous discussions with President Bola Tinubu, the labour union had been given two options: either a minimum wage of N250,000 and a petrol price hike to N1,500 – N2,000 per litre, or a N70,000 minimum wage with the petrol price maintained between N568 – N617 per litre. The NLC chose the latter to avoid further hardship for Nigerians.
“But here we are, barely one month after, with the government yet to start paying the new national minimum wage, facing an inexplicable and traumatic reality,” Ajaero said.
He also criticized the government for failing to honour its promise to reverse the 250% electricity tariff hike, which has instead been increased further, worsening conditions for Nigerians and businesses.
In addition to the reversal of petrol prices and electricity tariffs, the NLC called for the release of individuals detained for participating in the recent #Endbadgovernance protests and an end to the indiscriminate arrests of citizens.
Ajaero concluded by saying that the NLC would convene soon to decide on further actions, which will be announced to the public.
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