NLC seeks tax justice, workers’ inclusion in policy formulation

File Copy of President, Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero

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The Nigeria Labour Congress has called on the Federal Government to ensure that the country’s tax system is fair and inclusive, insisting that workers must be involved in the formulation of any new tax laws.

In its 2025 Christmas message on Wednesday, the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, said tax policies should prioritise “tax justice,” where wealthy individuals and corporations pay a fair share, while regressive taxes that place heavier burdens on low-income earners are eliminated.

The labour body warned that any tax law developed without the input of workers would be considered unjust and unacceptable.

The NLC also expressed concern over what it described as distortions and alleged forgery associated with some tax policies, saying such processes undermine credibility and public trust.

“Together, in this season and beyond, we must insist on Tax Justice where the rich pay their fair share and all forms of regressive taxation are removed. It is therefore our responsibility to once again remind the Government that any Tax system that does not include workers in its formulation and passage into Law remains an unjust Tax.

“Any Tax system that is mired in apparent distortion and outright forgery is unacceptable and should therefore be rejected by all. It is better to patiently craft a law that is broadly crafted and owned than rush into one filled with serious errors and outright political manipulations, ” the NLC said.

The NLC also urged Nigerians to remain united in demanding equitable governance and reiterated its commitment to mobilising workers to resist policies that worsen economic hardship.

“We must insist on Social Justice where all citizens have access to dignity, good healthcare, and quality education; greater Equity for Workers where labour is justly rewarded and rights are respected and infact A safe and secure nation where lives and properties are guaranteed and the people move about their businesses without fear and intimidation.

“Nigeria Labour Congress assures you that we are many and our power is inherent in our numbers and our solidarity. Only when we mobilise these numbers can we successfully resist policies that afflict us with suffering and pain. It neither pays us nor protects us when we allow them use us to call ourselves names in order to continue dividing us so that we cannot speak with one voice and stop the exploitation. Let this festive period be a time of re-dedication to this cause.

“It is a time to organise more, beginning from wherever we are in our communities and in our various locations. Let us be sensitive to the fact that it is only our own collective action that can guarantee the hope that we have for our dear nation. No one else can!, ” the statement added.

The four tax reform bills, which were strongly opposed by some federal lawmakers from the northern region during legislative debates, are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026.

President Bola Tinubu had earlier signed the bills into law, with the Federal Government describing the reforms as the most comprehensive overhaul of the nation’s tax system in decades.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and several civil society organisations have called for the suspension of the implementation of Nigeria’s recently approved tax reform laws.

Their demand follows growing public concern over the potential economic impact of the new tax measures on citizens and businesses.

The PUNCH journalist, Solomon, has five years experience covering crime, judiciary and defence beats.

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