TUC Condemns Petrol Price Hike, Accuses Govt of ‘Lack of Empathy’

The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has expressed deep shock and dismay over the recent hike in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, which was announced on Tuesday. The union has demanded an immediate reversal of the decision by the Federal Government, warning that the increase will worsen poverty, exacerbate hardship across the country, and potentially trigger social unrest.

In a statement issued by its President, Festus Osifo, the TUC condemned the sudden hike in both fuel and electricity costs, highlighting the severe impact these will have on the socio-economic life of Nigerians. “The burden of this PMS price increase is enormous and affects every aspect of our social and economic lives,” Osifo said.

He criticized the government for implementing the increase without consulting key stakeholders, calling it a blatant disregard for the welfare of the Nigerian people, especially the working class who will bear the brunt of these decisions.

“The news of the PMS pump price hike has sent a wave of apprehension and despair across the nation, adding to the already unprecedented hardship faced by citizens,” the statement continued. The TUC also voiced concern over the simultaneous increase in electricity tariffs by 250 percent, describing it as a severe blow to the poorest in society. The union criticized the timing and magnitude of these increases, noting the absence of meaningful social security measures to cushion the impact on ordinary Nigerians.

Osifo questioned why ordinary Nigerians are being forced to bear the brunt of the high cost of living while those in power continue to enjoy increased allocations and affluence. He noted that the government has failed to make any significant efforts to reduce the cost of governance or implement policies that would strengthen the naira and improve the standard of living for its citizens.

“The Congress has long proposed several strategies to strengthen the naira and ensure every kobo spent by Nigerians has value, yet little has been done to address these recommendations,” Osifo stated. He reaffirmed the TUC’s commitment to standing with Nigerian workers who are struggling under the weight of rising inflation, high living costs, and a deficient work environment.

The TUC warned that the sudden hike in fuel and electricity costs would only exacerbate these challenges, leading to further hardship and potential social unrest. The union called on the government to immediately reverse these decisions, promote policies that will strengthen the naira, and take decisive steps to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.

“The government must act swiftly to restore confidence and prevent further deterioration in the living conditions of its citizens,” the statement concluded. The TUC pledged to continue advocating for policies that promote social justice, fair wages, and a decent work environment for all Nigerians.