TUC Slams Rising Insecurity, Fuel Costs; Demands 50% Tax Cut, Crude for Local Refineries

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has asked the Federal Government to cut taxes by 50% for workers and manufacturers and allocate excess crude revenue to subsidise crude supply to local refineries to ease fuel prices.

The demands were part of resolutions from the TUC National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja on April 27, 2026.

The Key resolutions as read by Festus Osifo, President  of TUC were that he warned that the conflict between US- Iran is driving up energy prices, shipping costs, and inflation. It urged FG to treat it as a “domestic economic emergency,” build strategic fuel reserves, boost local refining, and use extra oil revenue to cushion workers.

The NEC decried kidnappings, banditry, terrorism, and farm invasions, calling it an “economic and labour crisis.” It demanded intelligence-driven, community-based security to protect farms, schools, highways, and workplaces, plus support for displaced farmers and traders.

 TUC wants part of crude revenue earned above budget benchmark used to subsidise crude to Dangote Refinery and other local plants. It said this would cut pump prices without returning to the old subsidy regime. It also demanded a 50% tax cut for manufacturing firms and workers to ease pressure.

The union welcomed FG’s ₦10bn housing loan scheme for civil servants but said it must be transparent and not hijacked. Urged states to replicate it for LG workers, private employees, and retirees.

On electricity Tariffs he condemned tariff hikes without service improvement. Demanded universal metering, end to estimated billing, and Labour’s involvement before new tariffs. “Nigerians must not pay for inefficiency,” NEC said.

He noted progress on acquiring a new National Secretariat. Reaffirmed Comrade Hannah Omeje as Lagos State Chairperson and said non-financial members can’t hold office. Directed audit of state councils. Ordered lawyers to review court ruling on ASCSN leadership tussle.

The union also raised alarm over growing casual work, especially in the private sector. Urged Labour Ministry to protect vulnerable workers.

It condemned unfair labour practice in food/beverage sector over NAFDAC’s standoff with distilled companies. Called on Health Minister to bring parties to negotiation.

TUC President, Osifo and Secretary General Toro stressed that the congress remains open to dialogue but “will not hesitate to mobilize workers where policies continue to deepen hardship or undermine workers’ rights.”