This development was revealed by NLC National President, Joe Ajaero, during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily program.

Ajaero stated that while President Bola Tinubu may have good intentions, the Labour Congress insists that alternatives must be provided. He emphasized the need for the President to understand the implications of fuel subsidy removal on the Nigerian populace and consider the welfare of the people.

Among the alternatives proposed by the NLC are the repair of the country’s four refineries and the provision of transportation alternatives for Nigerian workers, among other measures.

In a separate statement, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) expressed support for the deregulation of the oil sector and the removal of fuel subsidy, believing that it is necessary for Nigeria’s progress.

President Tinubu had announced the end of fuel subsidy in his inaugural speech on Monday, stating that the 2023 budget does not allocate funds for subsidy payments. Instead, the government plans to redirect funds towards infrastructure and other sectors to strengthen the economy.

However, the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) argues that the President cannot unilaterally decide on subsidy removal. They pointed out that the previous administration under Muhammadu Buhari intentionally left the “sensitive issue” for the new government to address.

Since the President’s announcement, fuel queues have reappeared across the country as Nigerians search for fuel, with prices ranging from N300 per liter and above.

Further updates on this matter will be provided.

As consumers flocked to petrol stations, operators wasted no time in implementing a sharp increase in pump prices. This sudden price hike has also led to commercial transporters raising their fares nationwide.

During his inaugural speech, President Bola Tinubu made it clear that the era of petroleum subsidy was over. Investigations in Lagos revealed that some marketers responded by doubling the price from N185 to N370 per litre. However, a few major marketers maintained prices between N195 and N220 per litre in Lagos and Abuja.

The situation worsened as some petrol stations decided to close their operations, resulting in long queues at the remaining stations. Depot owners also halted their activities, arguing that they needed further clarification on the implementation of the new policy.

In Abuja, motorists faced long queues at petrol stations as they grappled with the subsidy removal. Meanwhile, commuters found themselves stranded at bus stops, waiting for buses that were either caught up in the frenzy or had raised fares by 50 to 100 percent due to the fear of impending scarcity.

One disgruntled motorist, expressing their frustration, criticized President Tinubu’s decision, stating that it was a punishment for the already economically burdened Nigerians who had endured the previous administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

In a shocking development, Chief Raymond Dokpesi, the Chairman of Daar Communications, has reportedly passed away. The news of his demise has sent shockwaves through the political and media communities.

According to reports, Dokpesi, a prominent figure and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), died at the age of 71 in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria. The exact cause of his death has not been officially confirmed, but sources close to the family have revealed that he suffered a stroke and succumbed to his illness in an Abuja hospital.

It is believed that Chief Dokpesi had been managing his health following the stroke and was undergoing occupational therapy to regain his daily activities. However, his condition took a turn for the worse, leading to his untimely demise. The news of his passing has left many in mourning and has sparked an outpouring of condolences from across the nation.

Chief Raymond Dokpesi was widely recognized for his contributions to the media industry as the Chairman of Daar Communications, which owns prominent media outlets such as Africa Independent Television (AIT) and Raypower FM. He played a significant role in shaping the media landscape in Nigeria and was known for his outspoken nature and commitment to democratic ideals.

Further details surrounding his death are expected to emerge in due course. The nation mourns the loss of a respected media mogul and political figure, leaving behind a void that will be difficult to fill.