In recent times, the Nigerian government’s actions regarding the fuel pump price and the yet-to-be-implemented minimum wage have left many Nigerians feeling deeply betrayed. This sentiment stems from the clandestine increase in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) despite previous assurances to the contrary. The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) had reluctantly accepted a minimum wage of N70,000, with the understanding that fuel prices would remain stable. However, the government’s decision to raise fuel prices shortly after this agreement has led to widespread discontent.
The initial negotiation presented two options: a N250,000 minimum wage, which would have seen fuel prices soar to between N1,500 and N2,000 per liter, or a N70,000 wage with the promise of maintaining current fuel prices. The NLC, prioritizing the welfare of Nigerians, chose the latter option, hoping to avoid further economic hardship for the populace. Yet, less than a month later, the government has not only failed to implement the new minimum wage but has also imposed a fuel price hike, creating a reality that is both traumatic and nightmarish for many.
This betrayal is consistent with the government’s history of broken promises. For instance, when the leadership of the National Assembly assured Nigerians that the 250% electricity tariff hike had been addressed, many hoped for relief. Instead, the tariff was further increased, exacerbating the financial burden on both citizens and businesses. These aggressive market policies have contributed to widespread economic hardship, culminating in protests such as the End-Hunger/End Bad Governance movement. Rather than addressing these issues, the government responded with a heavy hand, arresting and detaining protesters on charges ranging from criminal conspiracy to terrorism financing. These actions reflect a disturbing trend of silencing dissent and suppressing lawful protests. In their pursuit of this agenda, security agencies have overstepped their bounds, even encroaching on the responsibilities of the Ministry of Labour and Employment. The NLC, along with civil society, remains steadfast in its commitment to defending the rights of Nigerians. They are demanding an immediate reversal of the fuel price increase, the release of detained protesters, and a halt to the government’s oppressive tactics. Moreover, they call for a reversal of the electricity tariff hike and a cessation of policies that perpetuate hunger and insecurity.
The NLC’s stance is clear: the government cannot criminalize protest or the basic rights of its citizens. In the face of these challenges, they promise to continue advocating for the welfare of the Nigerian people, refusing to be intimidated by a government that has repeatedly broken its promises.