The Nigeria Labour Congress has urged the Federal Government to urgently intervene in the rising price of petrol, warning that the development is worsening economic hardship across the country.
NLC President Joe Ajaero made the call in a statement issued Wednesday, saying petrol now sells for about ₦1,430 per litre in major cities, with prices reportedly higher in less accessible areas.
Ajaero warned that rising transportation costs would trigger further increases in the prices of food, school fees, rent and other essential goods and services.
The labour union called on the government to introduce immediate measures to cushion the impact of the price surge, including reasonable wage awards for workers.
It also urged the government to sell sufficient crude oil in naira to local refineries and expand the country’s petroleum storage capacity to strengthen energy security and improve preparedness for emergencies.
Ajaero said Nigeria, as an oil-producing country with local refining capacity, should have a buffer against global energy shocks.
The NLC also argued that government intervention, including subsidies, should not be ruled out in emergency situations.
The union further criticised the reported importation of crude oil by local refineries, describing it as contrary to the purpose of developing domestic refining capacity.
The NLC said the proposed measures would help protect households and businesses, create jobs and reduce the pressure of rising energy costs on Nigerians.
Comments
Add a comment