The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and other key stakeholders are set to convene in Ibadan, Oyo State, tomorrow for a national dialogue on the Federal Government’s proposed Tax Bill.
The NLC explained that the dialogue aims to collaboratively design a new tax framework that would gain widespread acceptance and drive national development.
Concerns over excessive taxation emerged during the NLC’s last National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Owerri, Imo State. Representatives from all six geopolitical zones raised complaints about the increased tax burdens imposed by governors as part of implementing the new N70,000 minimum wage.
A communiqué issued by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja criticized the exclusion of organized labour from discussions on the Tax Bill.
The communiqué stated:
“The NLC emphasizes that the primary aim of taxation is to generate revenue for government operations. However, the justification of any tax system lies in its impact on the lives of the people. A fair and equitable tax system must prioritize fiscal discipline, transparency, and effectiveness in the use of tax funds to deliver tangible benefits to the citizenry.
“The exclusion of organized 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.
“We demand that the Tax Bill currently before the National Assembly be halted for broader consultation and meaningful engagement with Nigerian workers. The politicization of the Bill and alienation of key stakeholders jeopardizes its potential to revamp the economy and develop our nation.”
An NLC leader underscored the need for a fair tax system, citing complaints nationwide. “Despite substantial monthly allocations from the Federation Account and internally generated revenue, many governors neglect workers’ welfare,” the leader said.
The dialogue will feature a presentation by a taxation expert and provide a platform for NEC and Central Working Committee members to question how the reforms impact workers’ welfare.
The NLC plans to present its position on the Tax Bill to the National Assembly following the dialogue. Additionally, the South-West Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses will be officially launched during the event.
