…Demands urgent action against fuel hike, rising costs of living
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has raised alarm over the worsening economic hardship faced by Nigerian workers.
The Commission urged the Federal Government to take immediate and decisive measures to cushion the devastating impact of rising fuel costs, transportation challenges, and broader systemic pressures on citizens.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, OFR, SAN, in a statement to commemorate the International Workers’ Day on 1st of May, lamented that the recent increase in petrol prices has significantly intensified the burden on ordinary Nigerians, particularly workers who rely on daily commuting to earn a living.
He noted that transportation costs have surged beyond the reach of many, eroding incomes, reducing productivity, and undermining the dignity of labour.
While acknowledging ongoing government efforts to address poverty in the context of global inflation, he emphasized that such measures are yet to sufficiently ease the immediate and lived realities of Nigerians grappling with escalating costs of living.
Dr. Ojukwu highlighted that transportation remains one of the most pressing challenges, with the absence of an efficient and affordable public transport system compounding the effects of fuel price increases.
He warned that without urgent intervention, millions of workers risk being pushed further into economic vulnerability.
The NHRC Executive Secretary further drew attention to the persistent structural issues, including estimated electricity billing and metering challenges, the high cost of housing, inadequate healthcare coverage under the National Health Insurance Scheme, and frequent industrial actions in the health sector driven by poor welfare conditions.
These factors, he noted, continue to place immense strain on workers and their families.
The Senior Human Rights Advocate also expressed concerns over wage disparities for workers performing similar roles, with a call for transparent and fair salary harmonisation.
In addition, he described delays in the payment of retirement benefits as unacceptable, adding that this singular act deprives retirees of dignity and security after years of service.
The NHRC Chief noted ongoing investments in the railway sector but stressed the need to expand affordable and reliable transportation options nationwide to directly relieve the burden on Nigerian workers.
Dr. Ojukwu further maintained that the current hardship occasioned by fuel price increases and inflation is not merely an economic issue but a human rights concern that demands urgent, people-focused responses.
He called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts by implementing practical and inclusive policies that will directly improve the living and working conditions of Nigerians.
“As the nation marks the 2026 International Workers’ Day, the NHRC urged all levels of government to act swiftly and decisively to restore hope and dignity to Nigerian workers.
Nigerian workers cannot continue to bear the weight of economic reforms without protection, their welfare, dignity, and rights must be placed at the center of national policy decisions” he concluded.
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