Nigeria Labour Congress Issues Seven-Day Ultimatum to Government Over Anti-Poor Policies
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding the reversal of what they view as anti-poor policies, with a particular focus on the recent increase in the petrol pump price. The NLC has given the government a seven-day deadline to act on their demands. Failure to meet their demands will result in an indefinite nationwide strike starting from August 2.
The decision was reached during a Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting held at Abuja Labour House on Tuesday, July 25. In the communiqué issued after the meeting, NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emma Ugboaja emphasized the immediate inauguration of the Presidential Steering Committee as previously agreed upon.
Among the demands made by the NLC are the reversal of all anti-poor policies, including the recent fuel price hike, increases in public school fees, the release of eight months’ withheld salaries of university lecturers and workers, and an increase in Value Added Tax (VAT).
The NLC also announced its plans to create a nationwide Coalition of all Nigerians, uniting civil society organizations and individuals to mobilize for mass protests in response to the government’s actions. The congress resolved to take action and lead rallies across the country, expressing their outrage against the perceived inhuman actions and policies of the government.
The NLC expressed deep concern about the economic hardships faced by Nigerians, attributing the situation to insensitive policies and actions of the current administration. They particularly condemned the abrupt increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from N185 to N500 on May 29, 2023, which had severe repercussions on the citizens’ lives.
The government’s subsequent hike in the price of PMS to N617 per litre further fueled the discontent among the people. The NLC accused the government of neglecting the welfare of the citizens, offering insufficient financial aid while seemingly prioritizing the interests of the ruling elite.
According to the NLC, the federal government’s unilateral actions and refusal to engage in meaningful dialogue have led to widespread anger and despair among the Nigerian masses. The NLC emphasized that the government’s policies seemed designed to weaken workers and the general population, leading to an urgent need for protest and resistance.
In conclusion, the NLC demanded the immediate reversal of all anti-poor policies, the activation of agreed-upon alternatives to PMS, and the inauguration of the Presidential Steering Committee. Should the government fail to comply with these demands within the stipulated seven-day period, the NLC announced its readiness to commence a nationwide action, which could potentially result in an indefinite strike and mass protests from August 2, 2023.
