TUC Appeals to Tinubu: Nigerians Cannot Bear Fuel Subsidy Removal Alone

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In a fervent address to the media on the nation's current affairs, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) expressed its approval of the Federal Government's decision to eliminate fuel subsidy. However, the TUC also voiced its concern over the persistent demand for sacrifices from citizens, deeming such a burden untenable.

Festus Osifo, the esteemed President of the TUC, passionately highlighted that the Federal Government had failed to reciprocate the sacrifices made by the Nigerian people. He earnestly called upon the administration led by President Bola Tinubu to set a positive example by reducing the cost of governance, especially given the precarious situation prevailing in the country. Osifo singled out the proposed purchase of new vehicles by the 10th National Assembly as an unwelcome move amidst the current hardships faced by the nation.

The TUC leader contended that placing the entire burden of fuel subsidy removal on the shoulders of the masses, while those in power continue to enjoy vast wealth, was an unjust proposition. He passionately urged President Tinubu to initiate governance reforms by reducing the number of his aides and limiting each new minister to only two assistants. This, he believed, would demonstrate the government's commitment to sharing the responsibility of tackling the crisis equally.

Osifo proclaimed the TUC's call for a comprehensive strategy encompassing alternatives to Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), provision of palliatives, and a substantial reduction in the cost of governance. He argued that the government cannot continue to demand relentless tightening of belts from the workers and the struggling Nigerian masses, while it continues to augment its own wealth and privileges.

Drawing an analogy to George Orwell's "Animal Farm," Osifo emphasized that all Nigerians should be treated equally, without discrimination based on their positions or affiliations. In times of crisis, he stressed, every citizen should contribute their share towards resolving the issues, without disproportionately burdening the downtrodden workers and vulnerable segments of society.

The TUC leader also called upon the government to expedite the work of various committees responsible for consultations on the withdrawal of fuel subsidies. The Congress was willing to support well-defined incentives that were transparent and had tangible benefits. However, Osifo sternly warned against any attempt to impose cash transfer palliatives, which the TUC would not tolerate.

Regarding the proposed increase in electricity tariffs, Osifo raised concerns about the potential impact on the already burdened citizens. He emphasized that Nigerians were reaching their limit of endurance, and any policy implementation, no matter how beneficial, must consider the timing and phasing to prevent further hardships on the populace.

Additionally, the TUC firmly opposed the proposed 7.5 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) on Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). Osifo asserted that since AGO had been deregulated and its prices determined by market forces, introducing VAT on it might open the door for a similar imposition on PMS in the future. The TUC vowed to closely monitor government actions to ensure no hidden imposition of such taxes.

In conclusion, the TUC's President, Festus Osifo, passionately advocated for a fair and equitable distribution of responsibilities in the face of the nation's challenges. He implored the government to prioritize the welfare of its citizens, provide tangible solutions, and refrain from disproportionately burdening the already struggling masses. The TUC's stance underscored its commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of the Nigerian people during these trying times.

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