The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has issued a stern ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the proposed 5% tax on petroleum products within 14 days or risk facing a nationwide strike.
In a strongly worded statement issued by Comrade (Engr.) Festus Osifo
President General and
Comrade General N.A. Toro,Secretary of TUC, the union described the planned levy as “economic wickedness,” warning that the move would further exacerbate the hardship faced by Nigerians already grappling with the impact of fuel subsidy removal, soaring inflation, and a depreciating naira.
“This reckless proposal is nothing but an act of economic wickedness against already overburdened Nigerians,” the statement reads.
The TUC emphasized that Nigerian workers and the masses are still recovering from the shock of the fuel subsidy removal and should not be subjected to additional financial strain. According to the union, introducing another levy on petroleum products at this critical time would not only cripple businesses but also push millions deeper into poverty.
“Government cannot continue to use Nigerians as sacrificial lambs for its economic experiments. Instead of providing relief, creating jobs, or offering sustainable solutions, it is choosing to further squeeze citizens dry. This is unacceptable,” the union stated.
The TUC warned that if the government proceeds with implementing the 5% tax, it will have no choice but to mobilize workers across the country for a total and indefinite strike.
“Strike action is firmly on the table if government dares to ignore this warning,” the union warned.
In preparation, the TUC has directed all its state councils, affiliates, and organizational structures nationwide to remain vigilant and await further instructions that may culminate in decisive mass action.
The union also called on allied bodies including civil society organizations, professional associations, student unions, market groups, religious leaders, and all patriotic Nigerians to stand in solidarity with workers in resisting the policy.
“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 statement concluded.