The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has said the recent Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) pump price increase will cause social unrest in Nigeria.

This was as TUC kicked against the increase in the pump price of petroleum, warning that it would worsen poverty among workers.

The union disclosed this in a statement signed by its president, Festus Osifo on Wednesday.

Recall that the pump price of petrol was increased to N897 and N855 per liter on Tuesday from N617.

Reacting to the increase, TUC asked the Nigerian government to “immediately rescind these decisions, promote policies that will strengthen the naira, and take decisive steps to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.”

It argued that the sudden hike “implemented without consultation with critical stakeholders,” represented a blatant disregard for the welfare of the Nigerian people, particularly the working class, who bear the brunt of such decisions.

“The sudden hike in fuel and electricity costs will only exacerbate these challenges, leading to further hardship and potential social unrest,” TUC insisted.

“We urge the government to immediately rescind these decisions, promote policies that will strengthen the naira and take decisive steps to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.

“The government must act swiftly to restore confidence and prevent further deterioration in the living conditions of its citizens,” the Union added.

Earlier, the Nigeria Labour Congress had also called for the immediate reversal of the petrol price hike.