Labour Gives FG Hurdles To Cross Before Removing Fuel Subsidy
The Trade Union Congress (TUC), rose from its National Executive Council on Saturday declaring that before any removal of fuel subsidies is given any consideration for implementation, the Federal Government must ensure that the nation’s local refineries are fixed and operational.
The Federal Government has given notice that it may likely end the subsidy regime in June but the move has been opposed in several quarters.
But, the TUC in a communique shortly after its NEC meeting, stressed that taking into consideration the worrisome and worsening economic situation and the rising cost of living in the country, both federal and state governments should as a matter of necessity put in place measures to ensure “food security and infrastructure development.”
Accordingly, the TUC directed its state Councils and affiliates to prepare for “industrial actions” if the government went ahead with its removal plans without meeting the set conditions.
The TUC’s communique signed by its President, Quadri Olaleye and Secretary-General – Musa-Lawal Ozigi states; “The Proposal by National Council of State on the final removal of subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) as from June 2022 should take into consideration the attendant economic impact on the masses.
“There must be assurances that refineries are fully overhauled and establishment of modular refineries encouraged.”
The TUC’s Communique specifically said that the effective policing of the nation’s borders to stem the rate of smuggling of petroleum products must also be implemented.
