…By Dorcas Funmi for TDPel Media.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has responded to President Bola Tinubu’s announcement to remove fuel subsidy by June 2023.
However, the President’s statement has been met with criticism from the NLC.
NLC President Calls Tinubu’s Comment Ill-Conceived
NLC President Joe Ajaero expressed his discontent with President Tinubu’s statement, describing it as not well thought-out.
Ajaero argued that removing fuel subsidy would have a detrimental effect on the nation’s economy, causing it to regress by more than 50 percent within 48 hours.
He emphasized that Nigerians would voice their concerns collectively at the appropriate time.
IPMAN Rejects Tinubu’s Fuel Subsidy Removal Proposal
The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has also rejected President Tinubu’s announcement regarding fuel subsidy removal.
IPMAN’s National Public Relations Officer, Chinedu Ukadike, stated that the association does not support the removal of fuel subsidy at this time.
He emphasized the need to fix the country’s refineries before making such a decision, as it could lead to rapid inflation and further hardship for the masses.
Call for Dialogue and Collaboration with Stakeholders
Ukadike highlighted that the new government should engage in discussions with marketers and other stakeholders to find ways to effectively manage the fuel subsidy regime.
IPMAN emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges faced by the refineries before implementing any drastic changes to the subsidy system.