The Nigeria Labour Congress and civil society groups have launched sharp criticism against the Federal Government and petroleum operators over fresh petrol price hikes, accusing them of exploiting citizens already crushed by economic hardship. Their target isn’t just the marketers. Regulatory agencies, they say, have failed spectacularly to protect consumers from downstream sector manipulation.
Chris Onyeka, NLC Assistant General Secretary, didn’t mince words. He alleged a “gang-up against the Nigerian masses by the elite” with ruling class support, describing the price increases as unjustifiable given le crude oil prices and improved exce rates. “The only justification for increasing petroleum product prices can only be seen from the standpoint of capitalist greed and the benefits of monopoly,” he stated bluntly.
Why the sudden spike when market fundamentals haven’t worsened? The labour leader pointed to industry concentration, warning that a few major operators now dominate the sector while government regulators remain “worryingly silent.” He insisted Nigeria would continue experiencing fuel shocks until local refineries, especially government facilities, achieve full operational status.
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre echoed these concerns through Executive Director Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, highlighting how Nigerians already struggle with soaring transport costs, food inflation and eroding purchasing power. The message is clear: patience is running dangerously thin.
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