NLC demands suspension of Tinubu’s tax reform bills

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called for the suspension of the tax bill currently before the National Assembly, stressing the need for broader consultations with Nigerian workers.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja expressed concerns during the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Owerri.

They criticized the politicization of the bill, stating that it ignores key stakeholders and lacks the potential to positively impact the economy. “A just and equitable tax system can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue,” Ajaero stated.

The union also urged the Federal Government to address the ongoing cash scarcity, which has placed an increasing economic strain on Nigerians. Ajaero described the scarcity as an “exploitative burden” on an already struggling population, noting that citizens lose up to five percent of their funds with every cash withdrawal.

He called for immediate government intervention and urged the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to ensure cash availability for daily transactions, particularly to support small businesses and boost economic activity.

“The impact of this on small businesses and other informal economy operatives is huge, as the situation poses serious disproportionate challenges to the poor and struggling workers and masses.

“The NLC demands immediate government intervention to rectify this systemic failure and protect citizens’ financial rights.

“We expect the Central Bank Governor to take steps to ensure that cash is made available to the citizenry to enable small business transactions and stimulate economic growth,” he said.

The NEC has raised serious concerns about Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, revealing that Nigerians paid over ₦2.23 trillion in ransom this year due to the growing prevalence of crime.

NLC President Joe Ajaero called for urgent government intervention to restore security, protect citizens, and uphold the rule of law. “This alarming state of insecurity demands immediate and decisive action to safeguard lives, restore public confidence, and ensure justice prevails. Many of the victims, who lost their lives or suffered injuries, are workers,” he noted.

The NLC also condemned the recent police invasion of its Edo State Council Secretariat, allegedly orchestrated with the involvement of the state governor. Ajaero described the incident as a gross violation of workers’ rights, involving the unlawful removal of items and an attempt to impose illegitimate leadership.

The NEC has issued a 14-working-day ultimatum, until January 8, 2025, for the Edo State government and police to vacate the premises, return confiscated items, and cease any interference in union activities. “This blatant act of impunity, including ransacking properties and removing items unlawfully, must stop. The deadline has been set, and compliance is non-negotiable,” Ajaero declared.

He warned that failure to meet the demands would prompt significant actions by the NLC to protect workers’ rights. “The NEC reaffirms its unwavering commitment to defending the rights and welfare of workers and the broader Nigerian populace,” he added.

Ajaero concluded by urging Nigerians to remain hopeful and united during the festive season despite the challenges facing the nation.