Subsidy Withdrawal: NLC Declares Nationwide Strike, Commences Wednesday

By Ayodele Oni

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has fixed Wednesday for the commencement on a nationwide strike over hike in prices of Premium Motor Spirit, (PMS) popularly known as petrol.

The NLC at the end of its National Executive Committee, (NEC) meeting in Abuja on Friday said the strike action would be implemented if the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited fails to reverse the new pump price for the Premium Motor Spirit.

The President, Bola Tinubu, during his inaugural speech on Monday, May 29, 2023, announced the removal of fuel subsidy.

A statement by NLC on Thursday read: “Our attention has been drawn to stories circulating in the social media space claiming that the Nigeria Labour Congress would commence protest action tomorrow (Friday, June 2nd) against the increase in the pump price of pms.

“Inasmuch as we are outraged by this mindless price increase which is intended to bring untold hardship to ordinary Nigerians, we have no plan to start any action tomorrow.

“What we do have for now are organ meetings slated for tomorrow, Friday, June 2nd, 2023 to deliberate on the price issue. We promise to keep Nigerians informed on our next line of action after our meetings.

“In light of this, we advise the public to disregard these stories. They did not emanate from the Congress.”

However at the end of its NEC meeting on Friday, the national president of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, while briefing journalists said, “The NLC NEC directs all state councils and industrial unions to commence mobilisation from this moment.”