The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has rejected the Federal Government’s plan to impose a 5 per cent tax on petroleum products, warning that the policy could trigger a nationwide strike if not withdrawn within 14 days.
The government had defended the proposed levy, explaining that it was aimed at providing steady funding for road projects and bridging Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit. According to Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, the measure aligns with practices in over 150 countries where similar taxes are charged at even higher rates.
But in a statement signed on Monday by its President General, Comrade Festus Osifo, and Secretary General, Comrade Nuhu Toro, the TUC described the plan as “an act of economic wickedness” against Nigerians already burdened by fuel subsidy removal, high inflation, and the depreciating naira.
“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.
The labour centre directed its affiliates, state councils, and structures nationwide to be on standby for full mobilisation should the government ignore its ultimatum. It also urged civil society groups, student unions, market associations, professional bodies, and faith-based organisations to resist the proposed tax, which it warned would deepen poverty and cripple small businesses..
Beyond the fuel tax, the TUC also issued a strong caution to the Dangote Group, accusing the conglomerate of persistent anti-labour practices. It cited reports from the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) alleging intimidation, harassment, and denial of workers’ rights within Dangote companies.
Other unions, including the Chemical and Non-Metallic Products Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (CANMPSSAN) and the Textile, Garment and Tailoring Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (TGTSSAN), have made similar complaints.
