The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria has called on the Federal Government to scrap the planned 5% tax on petroleum products, warning that failure to do so could lead to a nationwide strike.
The union described the proposal as “economic wickedness” against already burdened Nigerians, citing the recent removal of fuel subsidies and skyrocketing fuel prices.
According to the TUC, the new tax rule would further increase the pump price of petrol, which currently stands at N950 per litre, a 382% increase from N197 per litre when President Bola Tinubu assumed office in May 2023.
The union argued that this would push millions of citizens deeper into poverty and cripple businesses.
TUC’s national president, Festus Osifo, and Secretary General, Nuhu Toro, stated that Nigerian workers would not be subjected to further economic hardship and urged the government to focus on providing relief and solutions rather than squeezing citizens dry.
The union has directed its state councils and affiliates to remain vigilant and prepare for a decisive action if the government ignores their warning.
