The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed strong disapproval over the recent increase in petrol pump prices, calling it an act of insensitivity toward Nigerians. The hike, which raised prices to between ₦1,050 and ₦1,150 per litre, was attributed to rising crude oil costs. While oil marketers have denied responsibility, the Dangote Refinery clarified that the increase stems from global crude oil price hikes.
NLC Deputy President Prof. Theophilus Ndubuaku criticized the government for not involving stakeholders in decisions affecting workers and citizens, noting that such unilateral actions fuel frustration. He urged President Bola Tinubu to adopt inclusive governance, reminiscent of former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s regular stakeholder consultations.
Lagos NLC Chairperson Sessi Funmi blamed oil marketers for exploiting Nigerians, accusing them of resisting government efforts to stabilize petrol prices. She commended the Tinubu administration for reviving refineries in Port Harcourt and Warri but urged the government to bypass middlemen and enforce direct supply agreements for fair pricing.
Meanwhile, the Dangote Refinery stated that its pump price of ₦970 per litre reflects only a modest adjustment compared to global crude price hikes, ensuring affordability for Nigerians. The refinery announced plans to publish weekly price updates to promote transparency and counter market exploitation.
Marketers, however, argued that the price instability is driven by external factors, including international crude oil costs and exchange rate fluctuations, emphasizing that they merely reflect these changes in their pricing. The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) insisted that retailers should not be blamed for the rising costs, which also impact their operations.
The ongoing debate underscores the complexities of Nigeria’s deregulated petroleum market and the urgent need for solutions that balance consumer welfare with market realities.