The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has vehemently opposed the recent increase in petrol prices, calling on the Federal government to reverse this decision. NLC President Joe Ajaero expressed the union’s stance in a statement, citing that the government has failed in fulfilling its promises.
According to NLC’s demands, the price hike should be immediately reversed; protesters released, and indiscriminate arrests stopped. Also, the union wants a reversal of the electricity tariff hike and an end to hunger-inducing policies as well as insecurity in Nigeria.
Ajaero criticized government betrayal by recalling an agreement that entailed maintaining petrol prices at a certain level as long as there was a N70,000 minimum wage. He accused the government of reneging on its promises and perpetuating a culture of fear and lies.
The NLC warned it could take other actions should the government fail to meet its demands, stating that “We will not be intimidated, nor detracted” but would rather stand with the people in defending their rights.
The frosty relationship between the government and labour unions may degenerate into strike action should this situation remain unattended, as NLC accused the administration of intimidation and oppression, among others.
