Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a press statement condemning the recent increase in petrol pump prices, citing the government’s lack of consideration for Nigerians’ welfare. The statement, signed by President Joseph Ajaero and General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja, expresses dismay over the constant price hikes without corresponding measures to mitigate their impact.
The NLC argues that the private company, NNPCL, fixing prices and acting as a monopoly contradicts market forces logic. They challenge the government to present a comprehensive blueprint for inclusive economic growth and national development, rather than relying on ad hoc policies ¹.
According to the NLC, the price increase will exacerbate poverty, reduce production capacity, and lead to job losses. They urge the government to reverse the rate hike, emphasizing that previous increases have yielded no positive results ¹.
*NLC’s Demands:*
– _Immediate reversal of the price hike_
– _Comprehensive blueprint for economic growth and national development_
– _Government transparency on its economic plans_
The NLC’s concerns echo their long-standing commitment to protecting workers’ rights and promoting social justice. As the umbrella organization for trade unions in Nigeria, the NLC has historically advocated for workers’ welfare and challenged government policies deemed detrimental to the nation’s well-being ².
