- He questioned why the government was interfering in the operations of the private sector
Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President Joe Ajaero has criticised the government over alleged policy inconsistencies and fraudulent actions in the ongoing dispute between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and Dangote Petroleum Refinery.
Addressing journalists on Wednesday at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal II, Ajaero described the conflict as unnecessary, particularly in a deregulated economy where competition and consumer choice should thrive.
He questioned why the government was interfering in the operations of the private sector, particularly Dangote, and determining how it should price its products, which he said undermines the principles of a free market.
“In a truly deregulated market, private sector entities like Dangote should operate without interference. Imposing price restrictions or controls on a locally produced product, especially one without the costs of importation, is fraudulent and goes against the ideals of competition,” Ajaero said.
He criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for allegedly attempting to force Dangote to sell its locally produced petroleum products at the same price as imported ones, calling it dishonest. “For a product made locally, without the burden of imported dollars or landing costs, asking Dangote to match prices with imported fuel is both fraudulent and unacceptable.”
Ajaero highlighted the broader implications of this dispute, suggesting it casts doubt on the government’s commitment to the principles of deregulation. “Nigerians were promised a deregulated market where private companies could set prices freely. What we’re seeing now is an attempt by the government to control how private businesses operate, which contradicts the promises made during the deregulation push.”
He also called for transparency and fairness in the oil and gas sector, urging the government to review its policies to prevent further tensions. Ajaero pointed out that once the Port Harcourt refinery becomes operational, both NNPC and Dangote should be free to sell their products without government interference.
“This is the time for Nigerians to speak out. We were told that deregulation would put the private sector in control and reduce government intervention. Now, we’re seeing the opposite. If the government continues to dictate how much Dangote should sell his product for, it’s clear there’s a deeper issue of fraud and policy inconsistency that must be addressed,” Ajaero concluded.
The conflict has sparked a national debate, with many questioning the government’s role in shaping competition within the oil and gas industry and whether true deregulation has been achieved.
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