The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a dire warning that Nigerians may soon be forced to pay as much as N5, 000 per litre for petrol.
The NLC’s spokesperson, Benson Upah, voiced these concerns in a recent interview, emphasising the widespread anger and frustration among the populace over the continuous rise in fuel prices.
Upah revealed that the NLC is planning an urgent meeting to discuss potential actions in response to the escalating fuel costs.
“We will take decisions that we believe would be in the best interest of our members and possibly, this country,” he stated, highlighting the growing tension within the organisation and across Nigeria.
The NLC spokesperson criticised the government for betraying the trust of the people, particularly in the wake of recent negotiations.
Upah recounted a meeting with the President, where labour leaders were presented with two unfavourable options: accepting a N250, 000 minimum wage alongside a fuel price hike to N1, 00 or N2,000 per litre, or maintaining the current wage of N62,000 with no price change. The labour leaders chose to reject the higher wage, citing the potential devastating impact on ordinary Nigerians.
“This decision was made out of consideration for the well-being of the average Nigerian,” Upah explained, adding that the government’s subsequent actions have left many feeling abandoned. The recent removal of fuel subsidies, which has led to a 500% increase in the cost of essential services such as education, transportation, and food, has only compounded the nation’s economic woes.
Upah further criticized the government’s approach to subsidy removal, arguing that it has led to unnecessary uncertainty and hardship. He expressed fears that if the current trend continues, the price of petrol could skyrocket to N5, 000 per litre, plunging Nigerians into even deeper economic turmoil.
The NLC’s warning comes at a time when many Nigerians are already struggling to adapt to a new reality marked by soaring inflation and a declining standard of living. As the nation grapples with these challenges, the NLC’s call to action could signal the beginning of a broader movement demanding greater accountability and economic justice from the government.
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