The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has rejected the Federal Government’s plan to introduce a new tax regime on petroleum products, warning that it would worsen the economic hardship facing citizens.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, TUC President Festus Osifo described the proposed tax as “ill-timed and anti-people,” insisting that Nigerians are already battling with inflation, high transport fares, and rising food prices.
“Introducing additional taxes on petroleum at this period amounts to punishing the masses further. The government must reconsider this policy if it truly cares about the welfare of its people,” Osifo said.
The labour centre cautioned that any attempt to impose fresh levies on fuel would trigger resistance from workers and civil society, adding that the TUC was ready to mobilise against the policy if the government refuses to back down.
Government officials, however, argue that the petroleum tax is designed to shore up revenue for infrastructure and social programmes, insisting it would not significantly affect pump prices.
The rejection comes amid growing tension between organised labour and the Federal Government over economic reforms, wage demands, and rising living costs across the country.
