The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has voiced alarm over the recent increase in fuel prices, warning that petrol costs could surge to N5,000 per litre. NLC spokesperson Benson Upah disclosed that the union is preparing to take decisive action against the federal government’s decision, following what they see as a betrayal after earlier assurances from the president to stabilize fuel prices.

Upah explained that the NLC will convene a meeting with its leadership organs to determine the best course of action, which could include protests or other forms of demonstration. “The mood within the NLC is one of anger, reflecting the general sentiment across the country,” Upah said, noting that apart from the wealthiest few, most Nigerians are frustrated with the rising costs of living.

Upah also addressed the ongoing discussions regarding the minimum wage, revealing that President Tinubu had previously offered a N250,000 wage increase alongside a potential fuel price hike to N1,500 or N2,000 per litre, which the NLC rejected. Instead, they were left with a proposed N62,000 minimum wage, a move that Upah criticized for being disconnected from the realities of Nigerians’ suffering.

He praised the Adamawa State governor for implementing the minimum wage, while calling out other state governments for failing to follow suit.