The Kwara State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Mr. Faruk Akanbi; his Trade Union Congress counterpart, Mr. Israel Adebisi; and the Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association, Ilorin chapter, Mr. Rafiu Balogun, have appealed to the Federal Government not to implement total removal of fuel subsidy.

They spoke based on the speculations that the Federal Government was planning a total removal of subsidy on fuel or complete deregulation of the downstream sector.

In telephone interviews with our correspondent on Sunday, the labour leaders said such a measure would aggravate the hardship and sufferings of Nigerians, especially the masses.

Akanbi said, "Whatever is the decision of the NLC at the headquarters, that decision is binding on NLC in Kwara State. We also do not subscribe to removal of total subsidy because it will create more problems for Nigerians. We want to enjoin Nigerians to do everything lawful that will make the Federal Government see reasons why it must not add to the pains of Nigerians."

Adebisi warned that total withdrawal of subsidy was capable of repeating the mass protest and revolt witnessed in January when the Federal Government surprisingly removed subsidy but was forced by Nigerians to leave the price at N97 per litre.

"You know we said we suspended the strike, if they do it again, we will go back on strike. We will support whatever measure or decision our national body takes," Adebisi said.

Balogun cautioned the Federal Government not to take Nigerians for a ride, saying the people could not be railroaded into accepting any increment in pump price again when the rot in the oil sector had not be addressed and the culprits made to face the law.

He said the plan to totally withdraw subsidy was ill-advised. "If the rumour of another increase in pump price of fuel is anything to go by, then our government is ill advised. What should be of paramount importance to government is the consideration and implementation of Faruq Lawan Committee’s report on fuel subsidy."