The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) expressed its discontent on Tuesday regarding President Bola Tinubu’s announcement of the removal of fuel subsidy without consulting relevant stakeholders or implementing measures to alleviate its impact on workers.
In a statement by NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero, the organization expressed regret over the immediate consequences of the pronouncement, which led to the closure of filling stations by some marketers and subsequent price hikes in certain areas. The NLC President criticized this action as insensitive, causing distress and despair for millions of Nigerians, instead of the promised renewed hope under the administration.
Furthermore, President Tinubu’s decision was condemned for significantly devaluing the quality of life for Nigerians, with a staggering increase of over 300 percent and rising.
The NLC statement read: “We, at the Nigeria Labour Congress, are outraged by President Bola Tinubu’s pronouncement of the removal of fuel subsidy without consulting critical stakeholders or implementing palliative measures to cushion the harsh effects of the subsidy removal. Within hours of his pronouncement, the nation experienced turmoil due to service shutdowns and drastic price hikes, some exceeding 300 percent adjustments.”
“President Tinubu’s insensitive decision on his inauguration day has brought tears and sorrow to millions of Nigerians, instead of hope. It has devalued their lives by over 300 percent and counting.”
The NLC strongly opposed this decision and demanded an immediate withdrawal of the policy. They argued that the pronouncement had far-reaching implications for the economic well-being and security of the people.
The NLC questioned whether President Tinubu considered why his predecessors had refrained from implementing this detrimental policy decision. They also referred to a statement issued by President Tinubu himself on January 11, 2012, where he expressed concerns about the abolition of fuel subsidy and the breach of the social contract with the people.
The NLC emphasized the need for peaceful demonstrations to record opposition to this draconian measure, which was causing severe damage to the economy without providing any significant benefits.
In conclusion, the NLC criticized the government for placing the burden on the people and expecting them to overcome the hardships caused by the decision. They urged for a reconsideration of the policy, highlighting the adverse effects it was inflicting on the nation.