NLC President Ajaero Criticizes Fuel Price Hike, Calls It an Act of Impunity
The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has expressed his views on the recent increase in fuel pump price in the country. Ajaero described the new price as deceptive and accused Nigerians of being misled.
In an interview with Channels Television on Tuesday, Ajaero questioned the claim that independent marketers were now responsible for importing fuel into Nigeria. He demanded transparency by asking for the list of those importing the products into the country. He also disputed the assertion that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) could import fuel and claim it was done by independent marketers.
Ajaero further criticized the government for favoring the rich while taking away benefits from the poor. He referred to the recent decision by the Senate and House of Representatives to purchase vehicles for their members, implying that the government was prioritizing the interests of the wealthy over those of the common people. He warned of the potential consequences, suggesting that if people couldn’t afford food, they would take to the streets.
Ajaero emphasized that the issue at hand was not solely a problem for the NLC but a widespread concern across the country.
Meanwhile, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) stated that the increase in petrol price from N500 to over N617 was necessary for their survival in business. According to IPMAN, the adjustment was made to reflect the current economic reality and allow marketers to sell their existing stock at a viable price. They highlighted the challenges faced by their members in procuring fuel due to the removal of subsidies and the resulting financial constraints.
While acknowledging the timing of the price increment, IPMAN called for government intervention to mitigate the effects of the adjustment and ease the pressure on the dollar.
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