National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Ekpenyong Emmanuel
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to withdraw the controversial tax reform bills from the National Assembly, citing the need to prioritize industrial peace and protect the welfare of Nigerian workers.
In his New Year’s message to Nigerian workers, NLC President Joe Ajaero urged the federal government to withdraw the tax reform bills, which he said would have a negative impact on workers and the economy. He emphasized the need for social dialogue and consultation with stakeholders, rather than imposing policies that could lead to industrial unrest.
Ajaero also called on the federal government to prioritize industrial peace by taking pro-human progress policies and respecting agreements with trade unions. He noted that the government should focus on addressing the economic challenges facing the country, rather than introducing new taxes that would burden workers and citizens.
The NLC president also warned that the increasing use of violence in engagements with workers and unions must cease, as it is a recipe for industrial disharmony. He insisted that governments at all levels must comply with the provisions of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act from the beginning of the year.
Furthermore, Ajaero disclosed that the issue of tax reform bills would dominate discussion on the NLC’s national dialogue billed to take place in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, later this month. He emphasized the need for a new national tax law that would enjoy wider acceptance and fulfill its purpose of propelling national development.
The NLC’s call for the withdrawal of the tax reform bills is seen as a significant development in the ongoing debate about the bills. It remains to be seen how the federal government will respond to the call, but it is clear that the issue will continue to be a major point of contention in the coming days and weeks.
