|By Adejumo Adekunle-
Abuja, Nigeria – Nigerian labor unions have called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately reverse the suspension of the Rivers State government, deeming the action unconstitutional and an overreach of power. This demand was made by Joe Ajaero and Festus Osifo, leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), during the May Day celebrations at Eagle Square in Abuja.
In a strong message to both the Federal and state governments, the labor leaders warned against actions that diminish civic space and undermine the nation’s democratic foundations. They emphasized the need for transparent governance, electoral reforms, and the safeguarding of dissenting voices to ensure that democratic accountability is upheld.
“The rights of Nigerians to freely express themselves must not be curtailed,” said Ajaero. “The current political climate requires an immediate focus on reforming our electoral processes and protecting every citizen’s voice.”
The labor unions also raised alarms over the escalating violence and killings across the country, urging the Federal Government to prioritize citizens’ safety. The unions highlighted the government’s responsibility to protect lives and property above all else.
Labour Unions Demand Fairness in Taxation, Telecommunication Tariff Reduction
The NLC and TUC voiced their opposition to the controversial tax bills currently before the National Assembly, calling for their immediate withdrawal. They argued that the proposed taxes disproportionately target the working class while exempting the wealthy and corporations. The unions also expressed frustration with the lack of consultation with labor representatives during the bill’s formulation.
In addition, the unions made a bold call for a reduction in the telecommunication tariff hike from 50 percent to 35 percent. “The burden on Nigerian workers is already heavy. These hikes are unacceptable and must be reversed immediately,” Osifo remarked.
The unions also demanded a prompt adjustment in workers’ salaries to reflect the current economic challenges, alongside the immediate settlement of outstanding arrears, allowances, pensions, and gratuities. They called for an increase in the retirement age, alongside inflation-adjusted pension payments, to ensure that workers receive the fair treatment they deserve.
