BY PATRICK MGBODO
The recent fuel price hike by the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has ignited widespread backlash, with the Trade Union Congress (TUC) signalling new strategies beyond strike to confront the Federal Government.
Recall that the NNPCL recently raised the pump price of petrol from ₦586 to over ₦890, leading to a sharp increase in the cost of transportation, goods, and services nationwide; a development which sparked extensive condemnation.
Consequently, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) accused the Federal Government of betraying the labour movement.
Similarly, the Delta State Chapter Chairman of the TUC, Comrade Martin Bolum, in a chat with The Pointer, yesterday, described the President Tinubu’s administration as an irresponsible government.
According to Bolum, ‘’The position of TUC on the issue cannot be different from that of the NLC because it is an understatement to say that this government is betraying us; it is only someone responsible that can betray you.
‘’We are so disappointed because they have not even implemented the Minimum Wage they passed and then they are increasing the pump price (of petrol). Dangote has told us that they are ready to buy fuel and the NNPCL is saying they will buy from Dangote and sell to Nigerians at exorbitant prices. They refused Dangote from selling directly to marketers.
‘’It is a cabal, but let us watch them. The TUC is keenly watching the scenario, and with time, we will issue a statement. This is because when things happen, you do not just jump to conclusions. We have to study the situation and come up with something. The NLC indeed made a statement immediately, but the TUC has to plan and be strategic.
‘’It is not enough for us to just say that we are disappointed. We have to look at the issues and then come up with a concrete action to take because this government has proven to be irresponsible and there is a way to tackle an irresponsible person.
‘’Again, those who protested are being prosecuted for treason when we know that it is their right to protest. So, how should you go ahead to deal with such a government that is behaving as if Nigerians do not matter? Sometimes, people say we should call for a strike action but will it work? When you do protest, does the government listen? So, we have to think about it and know what to do’’ Bolum said.
Reacting to the implementation of the new Minimum Wage in Delta, the state TUC chairman said that the only impediment is that the Federal Government is yet to release the chart for the consequential adjustment, stressing that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is ready to pay the new wage.
‘’The governor is waiting; we are all waiting. We have been disturbing them (FG) in Abuja and they keep telling us that they have been working on it for over one month. Usually, as soon as the increase is pronounced, the chart comes out.
So, this government has proven to be irresponsible and that is just the truth’’ the state TUC chairman said.
