The Nigerian Labor Congress (NLC) has decried the exclusion of unions in the formation and deliberations of the controversial tax bill, persistent cash shortages and worsening insecurity.
The NLC said this in a statement after the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Owerri, Imo State.
In a fierce critique of the tax bill currently being deliberated in the National Assembly, the NLC emphasized the need for equity and inclusion in taxation.
Congress condemned the exclusion of organized labor from the discussions, stating that “if workers are not at the table, they are in fact on the menu.”
Congress has demanded an immediate halt to the progress of the Tax Bill, urging broader consultations that include Nigerian workers. “A tax system that alienates key stakeholders cannot be a tool for economic development,” the NLC stated.
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On the issue of cash shortage, the NLC NEC expressed outrage over the continued cash shortage, describing the 5% charge Nigerians face when accessing cash as an “exploitation tax on survival.” Congress warned of the devastating impact on small businesses and informal economy operators and called for swift intervention by the Central Bank of Nigeria.
“This situation disproportionately affects the poor and struggling masses,” the NLC said, adding that the government must act to protect citizens' financial rights and stimulate economic growth.
Highlighting the alarming state of insecurity, the NLC cited staggering figures: N2.23 trillion paid in ransoms, 614,937 lives lost and over two million kidnappings recorded in a single year. Congress described the crisis as a “national disgrace” and called for immediate and decisive government action.
“Insecurity is not just a statistic; “It is a human tragedy,” the NLC noted, emphasizing that many victims are workers who contribute significantly to the economy.
Jointly signed by the NLC Chairman, Comrade Joe Ajaero and Secretary General, Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja, the statement called for urgent government intervention on all fronts. He called for an inclusive dialogue on tax reforms, an immediate resolution of cash shortages and comprehensive measures to combat insecurity.
“The survival and prosperity of Nigeria depends on equitable policies, fiscal discipline and security for all citizens,” the NLC concluded.