The Organized Labour in Nigeria has called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately reverse what it describes as the unconstitutional suspension of the elected government in Rivers State through a state of emergency.
This demand was presented by the Presidents of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrades Joe Ajaero and Festus Osifo, during the May Day celebration at Eagle Square, Abuja.
The labour leaders urged both Federal and State Governments to refrain from actions that stifle civic engagement and instead foster a more inclusive civic space for the nation’s benefit.
They emphasized the need for democratic accountability grounded in transparent governance, electoral reforms, and the protection of dissenting voices.
Labour also called on the Federal Government to address the ongoing violence and killings across the country, labeling them as genocidal. They stressed that the government’s primary responsibility is to safeguard the lives and property of its citizens.
On the tax bills currently before the National Assembly, Labour demanded their withdrawal, arguing that Nigerian workers should be included in the deliberation process. They criticized the tax proposals for disproportionately burdening workers while exempting wealthy individuals and corporations.
Regarding the recent hike in telecommunications tariffs, Labour demanded an immediate reduction from 50% to 35%.
Additionally, they called for an urgent adjustment in salaries to reflect the current economic realities in the country.
Other demands include the immediate payment of outstanding allowances, pensions, and gratuities nationwide; the restoration of gratuity payments; an upward review of the retirement age; and the automatic adjustment of pensions to address inflation.