The Revolutionary Socialist Movement (RSM) has urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to rally workers in opposition to what it calls the “anti-people policies” of President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement released on Sunday, RSM criticized the recent fuel price hike, marking the third increase in less than a year, which has compounded the economic struggles faced by many Nigerians. Comrade Salako Kayode, the group’s Publicity Secretary, highlighted that the incremental adjustments to the minimum wage have been undermined by rampant inflation. He called on both labor organizations to schedule days for mass strikes and protests.
RSM emphasized the necessity of forming a working people’s defense committee across various sectors to combat government intimidation.
Reports indicate that the National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has begun fully deregulating the downstream sector, with petrol prices rising to N998 per litre in Lagos and N1,100 per litre in Abuja and other regions. The organization stated that this situation exemplifies the inability of the Tinubu/APC administration to address the numerous issues facing the country.
According to RSM, the current policies have plunged millions into severe poverty. The movement condemned ongoing assaults on the populace and demanded an immediate rollback of the fuel price hike, pointing out that Nigeria has ample crude oil resources. The group criticized the neglect of the nation’s four refineries, which remain non-functional despite substantial government spending on repairs that have allegedly been misappropriated.
The statement also noted that the recently constructed Dangote refinery has not led to lower fuel prices, calling into question the government’s promises regarding privatization. “This is a clear indication that privatization will not resolve our economic challenges,” RSM asserted.
Describing the government’s actions as “wicked” and disrespectful, RSM urged citizens to stand up and resist what they perceive as oppressive rule. The group called on the NLC and TUC leadership to actively oppose these detrimental policies rather than merely offering superficial support.
“They need to announce dates for mass strikes and protests. The erosion of the new minimum wage due to inflation is undeniable. It’s crucial to establish a defense committee for workers across all sectors to resist governmental intimidation,” the statement concluded.
As reported by SaharaReporters, the NNPCL has increased fuel prices significantly, with current rates at N1,030 in Abuja, N998 in Lagos, and varying prices across other regions. Meanwhile, the NLC is scheduled to hold a National Executive Council meeting next week to discuss its subsequent course of action.
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