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Human Rights Lawyer Falana says NLC's Ultimatum Presents Opportunity for Nigerian Government to Reconsider Stance on Subsidy

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Nasiru Eneji Abdulrasheed
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Human Rights Lawyer Falana says NLC's Ultimatum Presents Opportunity for Nigerian Government to Reconsider Stance on Subsidy
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In response to the recent hike in petrol prices across Nigeria, human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) believes that the ultimatum issued by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) serves as an invitation for the government to reassess its stance on the matter of subsidy removal. President Bola Tinubu had previously declared the removal of subsidies, which resulted in the increase in fuel prices nationwide.

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The Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) subsequently adjusted its pump price for petrol from approximately N185 to over N500. In light of this development, the NLC demanded a reversal of the price hike and threatened to stage a protest the following Wednesday.

Falana Highlights Opportunity for Government-NLC Dialogue Amidst Ultimatum

During an interview, Falana expressed his view that the ultimatum presents an opportunity for the government to engage in discussions with the NLC. He remarked, "Government has begun discussions with the Nigeria Labour Congress which perhaps should have preceded the announcement. But it is a new government and I expect as a new government, they should take advantage of the opportunity."

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Falana further emphasized, "When workers issue an ultimatum, in Nigeria and wherever it is, an invitation for the government to review its position." He also pointed out that the government should consider the overall state of the economy, highlighting that fuel subsidy is only a small fraction of the various subsidies present in the country. According to Falana, the removal of fuel subsidy fails to address issues such as smuggling and ultimately "punishes the people."

Additionally, Falana expressed concerns about the dollarization of Nigeria's economy, asserting that certain schools and businesses now accept payments in dollars. He deemed this practice illegal and criticized those responsible for "spending dollars irresponsibly," as it negatively impacts the economy.

Falana questioned the need for individuals to search for dollars within their own country and highlighted the detrimental effects of rents and fees being collected in foreign currency.

Nigeria Labour Congress Petrol Price Hike Fuel subsidy Government Review
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