Nationwide Strike Looms Over Fuel Subsidy Removal
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has taken a resolute stance against the federal government’s decision to remove the fuel subsidy, announcing a nationwide strike scheduled to begin on August 2nd, 2023.
Ben Upah, the NLC spokesperson, firmly confirmed the commencement of the nationwide strike on August 2nd. While an official statement regarding the strike’s specifics is pending, the NLC is unequivocal in its intent to press forward with the protest.
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“NLC gives govt a 7-day ultimatum for prompt action on demands.”
Failure to meet these demands will lead to the initiation of the nationwide strike on the stipulated date.
“NLC dissatisfied with govt removing fuel subsidy, impacting working class and populace.”
The recent fuel pricing structure introduced by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) further exacerbated the situation. Gasoline prices, which now range from N537 to N600 per liter, have met with public outcry. In response, the NNPCL cited market factors as justification for the price hike, fueling the already brewing tension.
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It is worth noting that this is not the first time the NLC has sought to enforce a strike. In June, the government intervened, preventing the NLC’s planned strike following requests for negotiations. Subsequently, a committee was established to discuss the removal of subsidies with the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC). However, the talks failed to yield satisfactory results, prompting the NLC to resort to industrial action once again.
As the NLC prepares to commence its nationwide strike, there are growing concerns about the impact on various sectors of the economy. Additionally, the situation has intensified with the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) initiating an indefinite strike, coinciding with the looming nationwide strike.
The NLC’s nationwide strike poised to challenge government’s fuel subsidy removal, marking a significant moment in Nigeria’s labor history. With the ultimatum set and tensions rising, the nation braces for the potential repercussions on essential services and the overall economy.
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