Nigeria TUC Blasts Government Over Petrol Price Hike, Predicts Social Unrest

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has condemned the recent petrol price hike, urging the Nigerian government to reverse the decision. TUC warns that the increase, along with electricity tariff hikes, will worsen the nation's economic hardship, risking social unrest if immediate action isn't taken to alleviate the situation.

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria has condemned the recent hike in petrol prices, calling for an immediate reversal. TUC President, Festus Osifo, voiced concerns that the sudden increase in fuel and electricity tariffs would worsen economic hardship for Nigerians and potentially lead to social unrest.

Osifo criticized the government for not consulting key stakeholders before implementing the changes, highlighting how these decisions primarily affect the working class. The 250% rise in electricity costs, he said, further compounds the issue, with many struggling to afford basic services in an already challenging economic climate.

TUC stressed that the burden of high fuel prices is making daily life more difficult for Nigerians, while the government has yet to take meaningful steps to lower the cost of governance or introduce policies to stabilize the naira.

The union warned that continued inaction by the government could lead to rising tensions, urging authorities to take decisive action to ease the country's economic woes. TUC reaffirmed its dedication to standing up for Nigerian workers and advocating for better living conditions.

The organization called on the government to focus on policies that address inflation, improve the naira's strength, and reduce the hardships faced by ordinary citizens, warning that failure to do so could result in widespread dissatisfaction and unrest.