Union’s Stand on New Economic Measures
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has firmly rejected President Bola Tinubu’s proposed ₦250,000 minimum wage to offset petrol price increases. The union demands an immediate reversal of the recent fuel price hike. It also calls for the release of individuals arrested during the #EndBadGovernance protests. Additionally, the NLC seeks a halt to indiscriminate arrests and a reversal of the electricity tariff hike. These demands underscore the union’s pushback against policies they believe exacerbate economic strain.
Government’s Betrayal Felt by Citizens
The NLC described the sudden PMS price hike as “traumatic and nightmarish” for economically struggling Nigerians. This increase occurred just a month after proposing a new N70,000 national minimum wage. The NLC had accepted this wage on the condition that fuel prices would remain unchanged. However, the unexpected rise in fuel costs has exacerbated the economic burden on the populace. This breach of trust has intensified the hardships faced by Nigerians.
Compromise and Consequences
Initially, the President presented the NLC with two options: a higher minimum wage of N250,000 linked to a significant fuel price increase, or a N70,000 wage accompanied by stable fuel prices. Choosing the latter to avoid exacerbating the financial burden on citizens, the NLC now views the recent developments as a breach of trust.
Further Price Adjustments and National Assembly’s Role
The NLC criticized additional increases in electricity tariffs, reminding everyone of the National Assembly’s past assurances to control tariff hikes. “Instead of the promised reversal, the rate has increased further, putting more Nigerians and businesses in jeopardy,” the NLC stated.
Government’s Response to Protests
The union also condemned the government’s approach to handling dissent, emphasizing that the government had arrested and detained individuals involved in protests, charging them with serious offenses like treasonable felony and terrorism financing. The NLC argues these charges are an attempt to suppress lawful dissent and silence opposition voices.
Future Actions and Public Communication
The NLC announced that its organs would convene in the coming days to decide the next course of action, which will be communicated to the public promptly. This decision comes as the union prepares to intensify its advocacy against what it perceives as unjust government policies affecting the livelihood of ordinary Nigerians.
Follow us on Socials: