TUC warns fuel price hikes will worsen poverty, demands reversal

Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) President Festus Osifo on Wednesday warned that the latest increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) petrol would worsen poverty levels in the country.

Osifo, who issued the warning in a statement, said the TUC leadership received news of the fuel price hike with deep concern.

He stressed that the burden of rising fuel prices is enormous and permeates all aspects of our socio-economic life.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited on Tuesday increased the price of its products across its retail outlets from ₦568 to ₦885 per litre.

This follows denial by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri, that the Federal Government had approved the fuel price hike.

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) on Tuesday condemned the fuel price hike and demanded the immediate reversal of the decision.

Osifo said: “This sudden increase, implemented without consultation with key stakeholders, represents a blatant disregard for the well-being of Nigerians, especially the working class who bear the brunt of such decisions.

READ ALSO: NLC demands cancellation of fuel price hike, release of detained protesters

“The disturbing news of the increase in prices of PMS pumps across the country has created a wave of anxiety and depression across the country.

“This comes after unprecedented hardships experienced by citizens.”

He said the TUC was deeply disturbed by the further 250 per cent increase in electricity tariffs, adding that electricity was vital to the survival of the poorest communities.

Osifo blamed the timing and magnitude of the increase.

“Why should ordinary people bear all the pain of high living costs while those in power enjoy increased allocations and prosperity?

“We urge the government to immediately reverse this decision, promote policies that will strengthen the naira, and take decisive steps to alleviate the suffering of the Nigerian people.

“The government must act quickly to restore confidence and prevent further deterioration in the living conditions of its citizens.

“The Nigerian Trade Union Congress remains committed to defending the rights and interests of Nigerian workers and will continue to advocate for policies that promote social justice, fair wages and a decent working environment,” he concluded.

TUC warns fuel price hike will worsen poverty, demands reversal first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.