Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has rejected the Federal Government’s proposed five per cent tax on petroleum products, describing it as a “reckless proposal” and “an act of economic wickedness against already overburdened Nigerians.”
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement jointly signed by its President General, Festus Osifo, and Secretary General, N. A. Toro, the union said the policy would worsen economic hardship, cripple businesses, and drive millions deeper into poverty.
“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 TUC said.
It accused the government of using Nigerians as “sacrificial lambs for its economic experiments,” adding: “Instead of offering relief, jobs, and solutions, it has chosen to further squeeze citizens dry. This is unacceptable!”
The union demanded the immediate withdrawal of what it called “this anti-people’s plan in its entirety,” warning that failure to do so would trigger 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,” it stated.
The TUC also directed its state councils, affiliates, and structures across the country to remain on alert for further instructions. It urged civil society organisations, professional groups, student unions, market associations, faith leaders, and all Nigerians to stand in solidarity against the tax.
“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 union declared.
