The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has rejected the Federal Government’s proposed five per cent tax on petroleum products, describing the move as reckless and an act of economic wickedness against already overburdened Nigerians.
In a statement signed and issued on Monday by its President General, Festus Osifo, and Secretary General, N.A. Toro, the TUC warned that the policy, if implemented, would spark nationwide resistance.
The union said Nigerians were still battling the harsh consequences of fuel subsidy removal, galloping inflation, and a collapsing naira, adding that the new tax would only worsen the economic crisis.
“Let it be clear: workers and citizens are still reeling from the pains of subsidy removal, skyrocketing fuel prices, food inflation, and a collapsing naira.
“To now introduce another levy on petroleum products is to deliberately compound suffering, cripple businesses, and push millions of citizens deeper into poverty.
“The government cannot continue to use Nigerians as sacrificial lambs for its economic experiments. Instead of offering relief, jobs, and solutions, it has chosen to further squeeze citizens dry. This is unacceptable,” the TUC said.
Naijaonpoint reports that the TUC warned that it would not hesitate to mobilise its members, workers across the country, and the masses for mass action if the government pressed ahead with the plan.
“Failure to do so will leave us with no option but to mobilise Nigerian workers and the masses for a total nationwide resistance. Strike action is firmly on the table if the government dares to ignore this warning and go ahead to implement this policy,” the statement read.
The labour body directed all its state councils, affiliates, and structures nationwide to remain on alert and prepare for possible industrial action.
It also urged civil society organisations, professional associations, student unions, faith leaders, and market groups to stand in solidarity with the Nigerian people.
“We also call on our allies, civil society organisations, professional bodies, student unions, market associations, faith leaders, and all patriotic Nigerians to stand in solidarity with us in this struggle.
“Together, we must resist policies that seek to further impoverish citizens and mortgage our future. Enough is enough. Nigerians deserve economic justice, not endless punishment,” the TUC declared.
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