NLC Reacts to FG’s Increase in Fuel Price: “A Deep Sense of Betrayal,” Says Ajaero

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed deep dissatisfaction with the Federal Government following a recent increase in the price of premium motor spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol. The price hike, implemented by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) on Tuesday, has been deemed a betrayal by the NLC.

In a statement issued by NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero, the congress highlighted that a key factor in their acceptance of the new minimum wage of N70,000 was an agreement that petrol prices would remain stable. Ajaero recounted that when President Bola Tinubu presented two options—N250,000 as minimum wage with a potential increase in petrol prices or N70,000 at the current rates—the NLC chose the latter to avoid further economic strain on Nigerians.

The NLC President has called for an immediate reversal of the price increase, describing the move as a “deep sense of betrayal.” He criticized the government’s handling of the fuel subsidy issue and warned that this latest development undermines trust in the administration’s commitment to fair economic practices.

Ajaero also expressed frustration over the government’s previous assurances regarding other economic policies, including a tariff hike which was supposedly resolved but has since worsened.

The NLC plans to convene its key organs in the coming days to decide on further actions and will make their decisions public.