The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has declared a nationwide strike set to commence next Wednesday in response to the recent fuel shortages gripping the nation. The scarcity is said to have been caused by President Bola Tinubu’s inaugural speech, where he boldly proclaimed the end of fuel subsidies.

The President’s announcement sent shockwaves across the country, prompting an emergency meeting of the NLC’s National Executive Council (NEC) in Abuja. Following the gathering, NLC President Joe Ajaero officially declared the strike, demanding that the government, particularly the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, reinstate the previous price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, by the specified deadline.

Addressing reporters, Ajaero underscored the consequences of the government’s failure to meet their ultimatum, warning of an indefinite protest that would span the entire nation. He emphasized the gravity of the situation, indicating the growing dissatisfaction among the labor union members and the general population.

During President Tinubu’s inauguration ceremony at the Eagle Square in Abuja on Monday, he unequivocally stated that the era of fuel subsidy payments had concluded. With the absence of fuel subsidy provisions in the recently unveiled 2023 budget, he deemed any further payments unjustifiable. Tinubu outlined his administration’s intention to redirect the funds previously allocated to fuel subsidies towards vital infrastructure projects and other initiatives aimed at bolstering the nation’s economy.

However, Tinubu’s pronouncement quickly sparked a resurgence of fuel queues throughout the country, as Nigerians flocked to secure the increasingly scarce commodity.

The impending nationwide strike raises concerns over the potential impact on the economy and daily life for millions of Nigerians, as the NLC’s labor actions have historically garnered significant attention and support