The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the recent increase in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, describing it as a demonstration of insensitivity towards the suffering masses.

Senior NLC officials expressed their concerns in interviews, noting that the hike would worsen inflation, increase transportation costs, and further destabilize the economy.

Crude Oil Prices Blamed for Hike

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery clarified that the price hike resulted from rising crude oil costs, not actions taken by the $20bn Lekki-based refinery. On Friday, petrol prices reportedly surged to between N1,050 and N1,150 per litre, with oil marketers warning of continued price increases if crude prices remain high.

Labour’s Criticism

NLC Deputy President, Prof. Theophilus Ndubuaku, criticized the government for failing to involve workers, the private sector, and other stakeholders in discussions before making such a significant decision.

“This price hike affects not only food and transportation but also inflation and the naira’s value. The government’s approach—what we call Tinubunomics—is untested and lacks proper consultation,” Ndubuaku said.

He argued that while other nations subsidize essential commodities, Nigeria has removed fuel subsidies without implementing promised alternatives, such as CNG-powered buses.

Call for Stakeholder Engagement

Ndubuaku urged the government to adopt practices like those of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who held regular consultations with stakeholders on workers’ welfare.

“We’re not saying you shouldn’t act, but carry people along. Let us know why these decisions are being made so we can prepare. Constant price changes without consultation only breed frustration,” he added.

The NLC maintains that the government must foster transparency and inclusivity, stressing that Nigeria is not the property of any single entity or administration.