Toba Owojaiye Reporting
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has made the decision to withdraw from various committees on fuel subsidy palliatives and strongly opposed any further increase in fuel prices.
In a press release signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero, titled “The Proposed Palliatives, Cash Transfers, Robs the Poor and Pays the Rich: We Reject It,” the labor movement emphasizes that it had shown restraint and participated in palliatives committees to prevent misinterpretation by the new government. However, it appears that workers’ patience is being taken for granted.
According to the NLC, since June 19, 2023, when the establishment of committees with a National Steering Committee was agreed upon, the government has yet to take any action to inaugurate the committees.
Meanwhile, news of a possible further increase in fuel prices is circulating. The NLC warns that the current government must be vigilant and ensure that the impunity displayed by the previous government is not allowed to resurface. The workers are fully prepared to oppose any anti-people policies.
Regarding the proposed N8000 palliatives for 12 million families, the Labour movement staunchly rejects it, considering it another deceptive move by the Nigerian ruling class to mislead the poor masses.
The NLC questioned the credibility of the data used to identify the 12 million poor families and calls on Nigerians to reject the proposal. It likens it to previous programs such as the homegrown school feeding program and the COVID-19 palliative, which were seen as avenues for corruption.
The Nigeria Labour Congress stands firm in its stance against the proposed palliatives and fuel price increase, highlighting the need for transparency, fairness, and the protection of the interests of the working class and poor citizens.