As the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) raises the price of premium motor spirit (PMS) to over N1,000 per liter, the Labour Party has expressed regret over the lackluster performance of opposition members in the National Assembly. The party also accused the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), led by Comrade Joe Ajaero, and the Trade Union Congress of neglecting their primary responsibilities.
In a swift response on Wednesday, the National Secretary of the Labour Party, Alhaji Umar Faruk, stated that the current political situation in Nigeria reflects a concerning shift towards a one-party system. He lamented that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is likely to continue this trend due to the apparent compromise of elected opposition members and the labor unions that are supposed to advocate for the common worker.
“We in the Labour Party have always warned the Nigerian public about days like this. The lack of credible opposition is allowing the government to take citizens for a ride,” Faruk asserted. He highlighted the dire state of the Nigerian masses, who are now pleading with President Ahmed Tinubu to show mercy amidst their suffering due to the opposition’s failure to adequately represent their interests.
Faruk criticized the labor unions, stating that they have become less vibrant and are prioritizing their own interests over those of the working class, leading to a widespread disillusionment with organized labor.
He emphasized the responsibility of opposition members in the National Assembly to challenge government irregularities, stating, “All elected members of the opposition have been compromised; they have become toothless dogs, contributing to a de facto one-party state. This situation is detrimental to democracy.”
Regarding potential protests, Faruk pointed out that public demonstrations are a response to the disappointment with elected representatives who seem more interested in personal gain than in serving the people. He noted, “As it stands, there is no opposition, and Tinubu is moving forward without any counterbalance. The legislative chambers should be the space for accountability, but instead, it seems there’s no effective second party in command. We cannot call for protests but urge opposition members to fulfill their responsibilities and hold the ruling party accountable.”
