TRADE UNION CONGRESS KICKS AGAINST RECENT INCREASE IN PUMP PRICE OF PETROL

The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has kicked against the latest increase in the pump price of petroleum, warning that it would worsen poverty among workers.

The union in a statement signed by its president FESTUS OSIFO, called on the Federal Government to “immediately cancel these decisions, promote policies that will strengthen the naira, and take decisive steps to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.”

 OSIFO argued that the sudden hike “implemented without consultation with critical stakeholders,” represented an obvious disregard for the welfare of the Nigerian people, particularly the working class who bear the brunt of such decisions.

 He  also expressed concern over the further hike in electricity tariffs by 250 per cent, faulting the timing and magnitude of the increases, and wondered why the ordinary citizens would bear the pains of the government’s policies.

 The union observed that the government has not made any concerted efforts to reduce the cost of governance or personal effects, nor have they focused on directing resources or effecting policies that would strengthen the naira and improve the standard of living of our citizens.

 It therefore urged the government to act swiftly to restore confidence and prevent further deterioration in the living conditions of its citizens.