Nigeria TV  Info

TUC Gives FG 14-Day Ultimatum to Scrap 5% Fuel Tax, Or Face Nationwide Strike

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria has issued a stern 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding the immediate suspension of the recently introduced 5% fuel tax. The union warned that failure to comply could trigger a nationwide strike capable of grounding economic activities across the country.

In a statement released by its leadership on Sunday, the TUC described the fuel tax as “insensitive, exploitative, and detrimental to the already impoverished Nigerian masses,” noting that the policy would further compound the hardship occasioned by fuel subsidy removal and rising inflation.

According to the union, the new levy will not only escalate the cost of transportation but also worsen food inflation and deepen the burden on workers whose wages remain stagnant. “This policy is another assault on the people. Government must prioritize relief measures instead of imposing additional taxes,” the TUC declared.

The union further accused policymakers of failing to engage critical stakeholders before announcing the tax, insisting that Nigerians cannot continue to pay the price for what it termed “reckless fiscal policies.”

TUC stressed that it would not hesitate to mobilize its members and affiliate unions across all sectors to embark on an indefinite strike if the government refuses to withdraw the tax within the given 14-day window.

Meanwhile, labour watchers warn that another industrial action could paralyze key sectors, including oil and gas, banking, transport, and education, with ripple effects on an already fragile economy.

The Federal Government is yet to issue an official response to the ultimatum.