The leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning that it will initiate a nationwide indefinite strike if the Federal Government proceeds with yet another increase in the price of gasoline. This warning comes amid ongoing negotiations between the government and the labor union.
As per Channels Television on Monday, August 14, 2023, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), a government-owned entity, has consistently raised the pump prices of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, since President Bola Tinubu’s declaration on May 29 that the fuel subsidy had been removed. The price of petrol has surged from approximately N185 to N500 and further skyrocketed to N617 last month, causing significant economic strain on citizens.
During an address at the African Alliance of Trade Unions Executive Meeting in Abuja on Monday, NLC President Joe Ajaero voiced the concerns of Nigerian workers. “As we are gathered here, there are discussions about yet another potential increase in the pump price of petroleum products. The Ministry of Labor has been seemingly delaying a response, only coming up with injunctions to restrain labor,” Ajaero stated.
He emphasized, “Nigerian workers will not issue any advance notice of action if the consequences of the previous price hikes have not been adequately addressed. We cannot tolerate further tampering with prices.”
The meeting, which saw the participation of labor executives from Ghana, Kenya, Senegal, and South Africa, also conveyed its concern to the ECOWAS leadership regarding the reported plan to deploy military forces to the Niger Republic to restore democratic order. The attendees expressed apprehension over potential repercussions and urged a diplomatic approach.
The impending strike threat has cast a shadow over the ongoing negotiations between the NLC and the Federal Government. As citizens brace themselves for potential disruptions, the government is likely to face increasing pressure to find a resolution that addresses the economic concerns of Nigerian workers.
The situation remains fluid, with citizens eagerly awaiting the government’s response and hoping for a constructive dialogue that will prevent further economic hardship and potential unrest.
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