The Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria has expressed profound shock and dismay over the recent increase in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, demanding that the Federal Government reverse the hike immediately.
In a statement released on Wednesday by its President, Festus Osifo, the TUC condemned the sudden rise in fuel and electricity prices, warning that it would aggravate poverty, intensify suffering, and potentially lead to social unrest.
The TUC stated, “The announcement of the PMS price hike was met with great contestation and grave concern.” The union emphasized that the increase places a heavy burden on all aspects of socio-economic life, particularly impacting the working class.
“The sudden hike, implemented without consultation with critical stakeholders, reflects a blatant disregard for the welfare of Nigerians,” the statement continued.
“The increase in PMS pump prices has generated widespread apprehension and distress across the nation, compounding the already severe hardships faced by citizens.”
The TUC also criticized the additional hike in electricity tariffs, which have surged by 250 percent, labeling it as detrimental to the poorest members of society. They condemned the timing and scale of these increases, especially in the absence of effective social security measures.
“Why must ordinary Nigerians bear the brunt of these high living costs while those in power continue to enjoy increased allocations and affluence?” the Congress questioned.
They lamented the government’s lack of efforts to reduce the cost of governance or implement policies to strengthen the naira and enhance citizens’ living standards.
The TUC reiterated its previous recommendations aimed at improving the naira’s value and addressing economic challenges, criticizing the government’s inaction on these suggestions.
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