Nigerians May Pay N5000 Per Litre for Fuel Under Tinubu Government, NLC Warns

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has raised concerns that the price of fuel could rise to N5000 per litre under the current administration. This warning follows a recent fuel price increase across the country.

Fuel Price Increase

According to reports, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has already increased petrol prices from N568 to over N850 per litre at filling stations. The price hike is said to be in response to a directive from NNPC management.

NLC’s Reaction

Benson Upah, spokesperson for the NLC, expressed frustration with the situation, stating that the new price violates an agreement the union had with the federal government. He warned that, if unchecked, fuel prices could reach N5000 per litre.

NLC’s Response to the Situation

Upah revealed that the NLC is planning a meeting to discuss the issue and take actions that serve the best interests of its members and the nation. He noted that the current mood among Nigerians, including the NLC, is one of anger and frustration, with only a small percentage of the population unaffected by the price hikes.

Betrayal of Agreement

Upah also accused the government of betraying the promises made during earlier negotiations. He recounted that President Tinubu had initially proposed a fuel price increase to N1500 or N2000 per litre in exchange for a higher minimum wage, but the labour leaders rejected the offer. The NLC remains committed to protecting the interests of ordinary Nigerians, particularly given the hardship caused by the removal of fuel subsidies.

Conclusion

The NLC believes the recent increase in fuel prices is part of a larger trend that may lead to even higher costs for Nigerians. With inflation affecting transportation, education, and basic necessities, the labour union has warned that the country may face further economic uncertainty if fuel prices continue to rise.