Trades unions in Nigeria have reacted angrily to a fuel price increase which came into effect earlier this week, more than doubling the cost of petrol.

Following a meeting, the Nigerian Labour Congress said the government should withdraw the increases within the next two weeks or face what it called the wrath of the workers.

It said the increases effectively cancelled out a recent pay rise given to civil servants and government workers.

A four-fold increase in transport fares followed the fuel price rises, leaving many commuters stranded at bus stops.

The Nigerian government has said the market would in future determine fuel prices.

Correspondents say the move is a sign the government will soon deregulate the oil market.