The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has issued a stern warning that the recent increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, could trigger widespread social unrest in the country.
In a statement released on Wednesday and signed by its president, Festus Osifo, the union condemned the sudden hike in petrol prices, which saw the pump price surge to N897 and N855 per liter from N617 earlier this week. The TUC argued that the increase would further deepen poverty, particularly among workers, and worsen the already difficult living conditions in Nigeria.
The union criticised the government for implementing the price hike without consulting key stakeholders, describing it as a “blatant disregard for the welfare of the Nigerian people.” The TUC urged the government to reverse the decision immediately and to focus on policies aimed at strengthening the naira and alleviating the suffering of the population.
“The sudden hike in fuel and electricity costs will only exacerbate these challenges, leading to further hardship and potential social unrest,” the TUC said in its statement. It called on the government to act swiftly to restore public confidence and prevent further deterioration of living conditions.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) had earlier joined in the outcry, also demanding an immediate reversal of the petrol price increase.
