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The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and
Joint Action Front (JAF) commend the Nigerian people for turning out in
their millions since Monday January 9, 2012, to protest the
astronomical increase in the price of PMS (Petrol). We commend them
for their resolute stand and insistence in struggling for a better
country.
The Labour Movement and its civil society allies after nationwide
consultations has decided that this weekend, Saturday 14th and Sunday
15th January, 2012, will be observed as strike, protest and rally-free
days.
We ask Nigerians to utilize these days to rest, restock and get
re-energized for the continuation of the strikes, rallies and protests
from Monday 16th January, 2012.
Discussions with Government
The NLC, TUC and their allies in the Civil Society Movement on Thursday
12th January 2012 met with the Senate leadership, Nigeria Governors
Forum and the Executive Arm.
At the meeting, Labour asked the Presidency to suspend the new
petrol (PMS) price increases announced on January 1, 2012. In return,
we offered to suspend forthwith, the strikes, mass rallies and street
protests. We also suggested that an expanded committee be set up which
would discuss the fuel subsidy issue and pricing for petrol.
The Government side presented a counter proposal asking Labour to
negotiate new fuel prices. Since we had no such mandate, Labour
declined and decided to return to its National Executive Council
meetings, which will be held on Saturday 14th January 2012 for a
possible expanded mandate.
Labour commends the National Assembly for its intervention and
further urges the Presidency to be more reconciliatory towards the
people and show more understanding and sensitivity to their feelings
and collective interests. |
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