Yesterday, the leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) made a significant statement by skipping a scheduled meeting with government officials.
Their absence was in protest against the removal of fuel subsidy and the subsequent over 200 percent increase in petrol prices at the pump.
The NLC leaders demand that the fuel price be restored to its previous level.
This decision comes in response to President Bola Tinubu’s inauguration speech on May 29, where he announced the removal of the subsidy.
Consequently, fuel marketers across the nation hoarded the product and raised prices.
The meeting between government officials and labour leaders on Wednesday ended without resolution due to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited’s release of a petrol pump price template, indicating a range of N488 to N557 per litre.
Although the meeting was scheduled to continue, one of the NLC leaders stated that they will not meet with government officials until the petrol price returns to its pre-May 29 level.
This condition is seen as a prerequisite for negotiations and progress.
Meanwhile, the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) leaders did meet with government officials yesterday, but the meeting ended inconclusively.
Both sides agreed to continue discussions on the issue.
Additionally, the TUC leaders demanded a pay increase to alleviate the impact of the subsidy removal.
NLC Prepares for Wednesday Strike
In preparation for the nationwide indefinite strike scheduled to begin on Wednesday, the NLC has instructed its state councils and affiliates to mobilize workers and civil society allies for full participation.
This call to action comes with an ultimatum for the Federal Government: reverse the petrol pump price increase to the pre-May 29 levels by tomorrow (Tuesday), or face a total strike.
In a letter titled “Notice on mobilization for nationwide withdrawal of service,” the NLC’s General Secretary, Emma Ugboaja, conveyed the decision made at the National Executive Council meeting on June 2, 2023.
The congress aims to launch a nationwide action and withdrawal of services to protest the unjust fuel price hike affecting all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria.
