The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) is urging the federal government to reverse the recent fuel price increase set by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).
In a statement from its president, Joe Ajaero, the NLC criticized President Bola Tinubu's administration for mishandling fuel pricing.
The labor union emphasized that past fuel price hikes have not benefited Nigerians; instead, they have exacerbated financial hardships. “We are dismayed by the latest increase in petrol prices,” Ajaero stated. “It seems the government is only focused on raising fuel prices without considering the capacity of Nigerians to cope or offering any mitigating measures.”
Ajaero also took issue with the NNPCL's role, arguing that it is unusual for a private company to set prices and act as a monopoly. He called on the government to develop a comprehensive plan for inclusive economic growth instead of relying on erratic policies and temporary fixes.
The NLC warned that the recent fuel price hike is significantly affecting Nigerians, worsening poverty, reducing production capacity, and leading to further job losses. Ajaero urged the government to reverse the increase, highlighting that previous hikes have only intensified poverty without providing any economic advantages.
He concluded by challenging the government to present its long-term vision for the country, stating, “The government should be bold enough to inform Nigerians in advance about its intended direction for the nation.”