The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called for an immediate reversal of the recent fuel price hike, the release of individuals arrested during the #EndBadGovernance protests, and a halt to indiscriminate arrests. Additionally, the union demands the reversal of the electricity tariff increase.
The NLC accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of betraying the Nigerian people by suddenly increasing the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). The union described the government’s actions as a “traumatic and nightmarish” experience for citizens already struggling with economic hardship.
The labour union highlighted that this price hike came just a month after the federal government proposed a new national minimum wage of ₦70,000. The NLC had accepted this wage offer under the condition that fuel prices would remain stable.
The NLC recalled how President Tinubu initially presented them with two options: a ₦250,000 minimum wage tied to a fuel price hike between ₦1,500 and ₦2,000 or a ₦70,000 wage with the promise of stable fuel prices. The union chose the latter, fearing that higher fuel costs would cause unbearable suffering for Nigerians.
In a statement, the NLC expressed disappointment, saying, “This act of betrayal is consistent with the character of this government.” The union also criticized the unfulfilled promises of the National Assembly to reverse a 250% electricity tariff hike, which has further burdened Nigerians and businesses.
The NLC also condemned the government’s heavy-handed response to dissent, citing the arrest and detention of individuals involved in the End-Hunger/End Bad Governance protests. These individuals have been charged with serious crimes, including treasonable felony and terrorism financing, which the NLC views as attempts to suppress lawful dissent and silence opposition.
The NLC annonced that it would convene its leadership in the coming days to decide on the next course of action, with details to be communicated to the public in due time.
