
The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has said the sudden hike in fuel prices will worsen the already challenging living conditions of Nigerians, particularly the working class.
TUC also questioned why ordinary Nigerians must bear the brunt of the high cost of living while those in power enjoy increased allocation and affluence.
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TUC’s President, Festus Osifo, said on Wednesday, that the hike in fuel prices will lead to higher transportation costs, increased prices of goods and services, and reduced purchasing power for workers.
TUC called on the Federal Government to immediately reverse the decision, saying, “Why does it have to be the common Nigerians bearing all the pains of high cost of living while those in power enjoy increased allocation and affluence?”
“The sudden hike in fuel and electricity costs will only exacerbate these challenges, leading to further hardship and potential social unrest,” TUC said in a statement.
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“We urge the government to immediately rescind these decisions, promote policies that will strengthens the naira and take decisive steps to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians. The government must act swiftly to restore confidence and prevent further deterioration in the living conditions of its citizens.
The union argued that the sudden hike “implemented without consultation with critical stakeholders,” represented a blatant disregard for the welfare of the Nigerian people, particularly the working class, who bear the brunt of such decisions.
It added, “We are deeply troubled by the further hike in electricity tariffs to 250%, a service that is essential for the survival of the poorest in our society. The timing and magnitude of these increases, in the absence of any meaningful social security measures, demonstrate a lack of empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians.
“Why does it have to be the common Nigerians bearing all the pains of high cost of living while those in power enjoy increased allocation and affluence?
“The government has not made any concerted efforts to reduce the cost of governance or personal effects, nor have they focused on directing resources or effecting policies that would strengthen the naira and improve the standard of living of our citizens,”