The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has strongly opposed the federal government’s plan to impose a 5 percent tax on petroleum products, labeling it an act of “economic cruelty” on citizens already burdened by economic challenges.
In a statement issued on Monday, TUC President Festus Osifo and Secretary General Nuhu Toro emphasized that the new tax would deepen the hardships Nigerians face amid the removal of petrol subsidies, soaring food costs, and the rapid decline of the naira currency.
“The people are still struggling with the aftermath of subsidy cuts, inflated fuel prices, rising food inflation, and a weakening naira. Imposing another levy on petroleum products only intensifies these difficulties, threatens businesses, and pushes more Nigerians into poverty,” the statement warned.
The union criticized the government for treating Nigerians as “sacrificial victims” in its economic policies rather than providing relief, employment, or meaningful solutions.
“This approach is unacceptable and must be reversed,” the TUC leaders insisted. The labour group has called on the government to abandon the tax proposal immediately, cautioning that failure to do so could prompt a countrywide strike.
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“If the government proceeds with this plan, we will have no choice but to organize a full-scale resistance involving workers and the broader population,” the statement added.
TUC has directed its state branches, affiliates, and members to stay vigilant and ready for further directives, signaling that firm action will follow if public opposition is ignored.
Furthermore, the union appealed to civil society, professional groups, student bodies, market traders, and religious organizations to unite in opposing policies that would deepen economic hardship and jeopardize Nigeria’s future.
“Enough is enough. Nigerians deserve fair economic policies—not relentless hardship,” the TUC concluded.
