NLC Condemns Government Interference in NNPCL-Dangote Refinery Dispute

President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has blamed the ongoing conflict between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and Dangote Refinery on alleged policy inconsistencies and fraudulent practices by the government.

Speaking at a media briefing held at Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos on Wednesday, Ajaero expressed concern over the dispute, stating that such conflicts should not exist in a deregulated market designed to foster competition and consumer choice.

Ajaero criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for attempting to control Dangote’s business operations, specifically its pricing structure, describing it as fraudulent interference.

He noted that it is unfair for the government to expect Dangote to sell locally produced petroleum products at the same price as imported ones, especially as local production avoids costs like foreign exchange and landing fees.

“In a truly deregulated market, there should be no interference in how private sector entities like Dangote operate,” Ajaero stated. “Imposing restrictions or dictating prices undermines the principles of a free market.”

Ajaero emphasized that the government’s attempt to dictate Dangote’s pricing is both dishonest and inconsistent with the promises of deregulation. He called on Nigerians to speak out against the government’s interference in the pricing of locally produced goods, highlighting that deregulation should empower the private sector to operate freely.

This standoff between NNPCL and Dangote has sparked widespread debate, raising concerns over the government’s role in regulating the energy sector.