The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC has called on Nigerians to join them fight against government policies causing hunger and hardship in the country.

This is as it warned of the consequences of not reverting the recent hike in price of petrol.

NLC also called on Nigerians to revolt against the price.

President of NLC, Joel Ajaero, who was represented by the Deputy President and President-General of Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, MWUN, Prince Adewale Adeyanju, stated this at the 2024 annual workshop organised by Labour Writers Association of Nigeria, LAWAN, with the theme “Challenges of Nigeria’s Economic Downturn: Survival Options for Workers.’’

He said: “As we engage the forces of retrogression, we want you to continue being on our side. It is your responsibility to continue letting Nigerians know the truth, even as we traverse the various barricades of intimidation and harassment in all guises. Refuse to be intimidated.

“Today, we gather amid a crisis of survival that has gripped Nigerian workers and citizens. This crisis is not an accident of fate but a direct consequence of ill-thought-out and ill-implemented policies by the Tinubu-led federal government.

‘’The hike in the price of petrol, the devaluation of the naira, and the unrelenting increases in electricity tariffs have compounded the hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians.

“Moreover, unchecked corruption and fiscal indiscipline have paved the way for an ostentatious lifestyle among political office holders, with little regard for the suffering masses."

“The hike in petrol prices has led to an astronomical increase in transportation and food costs, which has, in turn, strained household budgets beyond breaking point. The devaluation of the naira has eroded the purchasing power of the average Nigerian, leading to a situation where even basic necessities are becoming increasingly unaffordable.

“Meanwhile, electricity tariffs continue to soar, forcing many into darkness and stifling small businesses, which are the backbone of our economy.

“As we grapple with these challenges, we must also confront the rampant corruption that siphons off resources meant for public good. The lavish lifestyles of political office holders stand in stark contrast to the daily struggles of the average Nigerian worker, creating a chasm of inequality that undermines the very fabric of our society.

“In the midst of these challenges, the NLC has fought relentlessly to secure a fair wage for Nigerian workers. After sustained struggle and negotiations, we achieved the landmark agreement on the N70,000 national minimum wage, which has been signed into law.

‘’This achievement is a testament to the resilience and commitment of Nigerian workers and their representatives. Yet, despite this victory, the implementation of the minimum wage remains elusive and speaks to the nature of the battle ahead.

“We, therefore, call on your members to join us in this struggle the same way you did during the negotiation process so that together, we can enjoy whatever benefits it contains. Do not think it is for us, NLC, alone. It is for you too. It affects all of us so, we must all collectivise our effort to ensure victory at the various levels – state or sectoral.’’