…By Larry John for TDPel Media.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has declared its intention to initiate a nationwide strike beginning on Wednesday, June 7, 2023.
This decision was reached during an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on Friday, where the main topic of discussion was the recent surge in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol.
The meeting, attended by executive members of affiliated unions, commenced at slightly past 12 pm.
Opposition to Fuel Subsidy Removal
The trade union group vehemently opposed the removal of the fuel subsidy, which was announced by President Bola Tinubu during his inaugural speech on Monday, May 29.
In response to this decision, the NLC held an emergency NEC meeting in Abuja on the same day.
Ultimatum for Reverting to Previous Fuel Price
Following the emergency meeting, NLC President Joe Ajaero conveyed a clear message to the government, particularly the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited.
He stated that they had until the following Wednesday to reverse the recent increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and return to the previous price.
Threat of Indefinite Nationwide Protest
Ajaero emphasized that failure on the part of the Federal Government to meet the ultimatum would result in an indefinite protest staged across the country.
The NLC intends to mobilize its members and supporters to express their dissatisfaction with the fuel price hike and demand immediate action from the government.