TUC Threatens Nationwide Strike Over Proposed 5% Petroleum Tax
The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has strongly opposed the Federal Government’s proposed 5% tax on petroleum products, warning that it could lead to a nationwide strike if the plan is not immediately scrapped.
Describing the move as an act of "economic wickedness," the union argued that the tax would worsen the already harsh living conditions faced by Nigerians, cripple businesses, and drive millions deeper into poverty.
The controversial tax, which is part of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act and aimed at increasing government revenue, has sparked widespread backlash among citizens, businesses, and policy experts. Critics say the policy would inevitably raise petrol pump prices and aggravate the current economic hardship.
In a statement jointly signed by TUC President General Festus Osifo and Secretary General N.A. Toro, the union said the government must stop using Nigerians as "sacrificial lambs for its economic experiments." They stressed that citizens are still suffering from the impact of fuel subsidy removal, rising fuel prices, soaring food costs, and the depreciation of the naira.
“To now introduce another levy on petroleum products is a deliberate attempt to intensify the suffering of Nigerians, cripple businesses, and further push millions into poverty,” the union stated.
The TUC emphasized that the tax would especially hurt the transport sector and low-income citizens who rely heavily on petroleum products. It called on its state councils to remain alert and ready for immediate action.
“We urge all civil society groups, professional associations, student unions, market traders, faith leaders, and every patriotic Nigerian to join us in resisting this anti-people policy. Enough is enough — Nigerians deserve economic justice, not continuous punishment,” the statement said.
The union made it clear that a nationwide strike is a real possibility if the government proceeds with implementing the policy.
“This government cannot continue burdening citizens instead of providing solutions, jobs, and relief. Strike action is firmly on the table if this unjust policy is not withdrawn,” the TUC warned.
The union concluded by demanding the immediate cancellation of the proposed tax and promised to mobilise Nigerian workers and citizens for a mass resistance if the government fails to comply.
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