NLC demands halt on tax reform bills, decries exclusion of workers in policy formation

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the National Assembly to suspend deliberations on the proposed tax reform bills, emphasizing the need for broader consultation and the inclusion of Nigerian workers in the process.

In a communiqué issued after its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Owerri, Imo State, the NLC expressed dissatisfaction over its exclusion from discussions shaping the bills, describing the move as “unacceptable and a violation of the principles of tax justice.”

The document, signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja, reads:

“The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) emphasizes that the primary aim of taxation is to generate revenue for running the government. However, the justification of any tax system lies in its impact on the lives of the people. A fair and equitable tax system must prioritise fiscal discipline, transparency, and effectiveness in the use of tax funds to deliver tangible benefits to the citizenry.

“The NLC strongly asserts that discussions on taxation in a serious nation cannot exclude those who bear the brunt of the tax burden. The exclusion of organised labour in the formulation of the current Tax Bill is unacceptable and undermines the principles of tax justice. If labour is not at the table, it is effectively on the menu.

“The Congress demands that the Tax Bill currently before the National Assembly be halted for broader consultation and meaningful engagement with Nigerian workers. The politicisation of the Bill and alienation of key stakeholders is worrying and robs it of its capacity as an effective tool to revamp the economy and develop our nation. Only through inclusive dialogue can we ensure a just and equitable tax system that benefits all citizens.”

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The NLC also raised alarms over persistent cash shortages in the country, urging the Federal Government and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to address the issue.

“The NEC expressed grave concern over the persistent cash scarcity in Nigeria, describing it as an unfortunate and exploitative burden on the already struggling populace,” the communiqué stated.

“Nigerians are being forced to forfeit 5% of their funds each time they access cash, an unacceptable situation that exacerbates the economic woes faced by millions. The impact of this on small businesses and other informal economy operators is huge, posing serious 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.”

The Congress highlighted the alarming state of insecurity across the nation, citing reports of significant financial and human losses.

“The NEC raised alarms over the worsening insecurity in the country, referencing disturbing reports that Nigerians paid a staggering N2.23 trillion in ransom this year alone across 51.8 million recorded crime incidents,” the communiqué noted.
“614,937 Nigerians lost their lives, while 2,235,954 others were kidnapped within one year. This appalling state of insecurity underscores the urgent need for the government to take decisive action to safeguard lives and property, restore public confidence, and ensure the rule of law prevails. Majority of the citizens who either lost their lives or are maimed as a result are workers.”

Acknowledging the hardships endured throughout the year, the NLC urged Nigerians to embrace unity and resilience during the festive season.

“NEC urged citizens to be united to co-create a better nation in 2025. Resolving to build collective power would create needed synergies to successfully engage all the retrogressive forces holding our nation down and forge a breakthrough next year,” the communiqué stated.

The Congress also reiterated its commitment to defending workers’ rights and praised the government’s efforts in donating CNG buses while reminding authorities of outstanding pledges.

The NLC condemned what it described as an orchestrated invasion of its Edo State Secretariat by the police and the state governor.

“The NEC strongly condemned the actions of the Police and the Governor of Edo State in orchestrating an invasion of the NLC State Secretariat,” the communiqué said.

“This brazen act of impunity included the ransacking of properties and the unlawful removal of items, all in a bid to impose an illegitimate leadership on the workers.

“The NEC therefore, resolved to give the Edo State Government and the Police a deadline of 14 working days, up to January 8, 2025, to vacate the Secretariat premises, return all confiscated properties to the Congress, and commit to refraining from further interference in trade union activities. Failure to comply will compel the Congress to initiate unprecedented measures in defense of workers’ and trade union rights.”

Reaffirming its mission, the NLC stated: “NEC therefore reaffirms its unwavering commitment to defending the rights and welfare of workers and the broader Nigerian populace. It remains steadfast in its mission to protect the collective interests of workers and to champion a future rooted in justice, equity, and national progress.”

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