By ADEMOLA TIJANI
President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), Comrade Festus Osifo, has called on the government to solve the raing fuel pricing issues in Nigeria, particularly in light of recent face-off between the Dangote Group and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).
Osifo’s statement comes as fuel prices continue to rise, prompting concerns among workers, consumers, and various economic stakeholders over the multiplier effects of escalating petrol products prices on citizens’ purchasing power, emphasizing that fuel prices are not mere figures btu they directly affect the livelihoods of ordinary Nigerians by influencing transportation costs, prices of goods and the overall cost of living.
While acknowledging Dangote Group’s essential contributions to Nigeria’s industrial sector, Osifo urged the company to prioritize consumer affordability in its pricing strategies.
“In these challenging economic times, where many families are already facing financial difficulties, it is crucial that Dangote ensures its pricing remains accessible to all Nigerians,” he stated.
The statement also highlighted the need for NNPCL to reconsider its pricing framework.
As the primary supplier of petroleum products in Nigeria, NNPCL’s pricing decisions carry significant weight, Osifo said, warning that any increase in fuel prices could have devastating effects on multiple sectors, including transportation, manufacturing, and agriculture.
“The consequences of rising fuel prices can lead to increased costs of essential goods and services, further burdening the average Nigerian,” he remarked.
In response to these challenges, Osifo called for immediate and transparent dialogue among the Dangote Group, NNPC, labour unions, and other relevant stakeholders.
He described such discussions as vital to addressing the underlying issues and establishing a sustainable pricing framework that considers the economic realities faced by Nigerian workers and citizens.
Osifo further urged the Federal Government to take decisive steps towards monitoring and regulating fuel prices.
“Implementing strict oversight measures will be essential in preventing price gouging and ensuring that consumers are not exploited in this critical sector,” he asserted.
Assuring that the TUC and PENGASSAN remain committed to advocating for the rights and interests of workers and consumers across Nigeria, Osifo surmised: “Through collective action and collaboration, we believe we can foster an economic environment that promotes fairness, equity, and sustainability for all stakeholders involved.”
