In a recent development, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly criticized the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited for its significant increase in the price of petrol.
The NLC, led by President Joe Ajaero, issued a statement expressing concerns over the government’s actions despite ongoing discussions in the oil and gas sector to manage the withdrawal of petroleum subsidy.
The NLC condemned the announcement made by the NNPC, referring to it as an “ambush” and stating that it goes against the principles of Social Dialogue, which is seen as the best platform for resolving issues in the petroleum downstream sector.
According to President Ajaero, the government’s simultaneous talk of deregulation while fixing petroleum prices is contradictory and undermines the concept of a free market.
He called the government’s actions unacceptable and criticized them for putting undue pressure on the Nigerian people and the dialogue process.
Ajaero urged the federal government to intervene and instruct the NNPC to withdraw the pricing template, allowing for uninterrupted discussions between the parties involved.
Ajaero further emphasized that Nigerians will not tolerate any form of manipulation from any party, especially government representatives.
The NLC’s commitment to the dialogue process is contingent on the withdrawal of the pricing template, as its release hinders progress and suggests that the government is attempting to undermine the negotiations.
Ajaero highlighted the need for flexibility, concessions, and reasonable accommodations to achieve the best outcome for the Nigerian people.
In confirmation of the price hike, the NNPC announced on Wednesday that petroleum products would now be sold at prices ranging from N488 to N555 per litre.
