The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the Federal Government to urgently tackle the persistent cash scarcity plaguing the nation, describing it as an exploitative burden on struggling Nigerians.
This demand was articulated in a communiqué jointly signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja on Thursday in Abuja. The document was issued following the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Owerri.
The NEC expressed alarm over the financial strain caused by cash shortages, noting that Nigerians are being forced to forfeit 5% of their funds for access to cash—a situation it labeled as “unacceptable and detrimental” to small businesses and the informal economy.
“This systemic failure disproportionately affects the poor and struggling workers,” said Ajaero. “We demand immediate intervention by the Central Bank Governor to make cash available, enabling small transactions and stimulating economic growth.”
The NLC also called for a halt to the tax bill currently before the National Assembly, citing inadequate consultation and the exclusion of key stakeholders.
“The politicisation of this bill undermines its potential as a tool for economic revival,” Ajaero said. “We advocate for inclusive dialogue to create a just and equitable tax system that benefits all Nigerians.”
The NEC raised serious concerns over worsening insecurity, revealing that Nigerians paid N2.23 trillion in ransoms this year amid 51.8 million recorded crime incidents.
“This alarming state of insecurity demands decisive government action to protect lives, restore public confidence, and uphold the rule of law,” Ajaero emphasized.
The NLC also condemned the invasion of its Edo State Council Secretariat, accusing the police and state government of attempting to impose illegitimate leadership on the union.
“The brazen ransacking of properties and removal of items violates trade union rights,” said Ajaero. “We demand the immediate return of confiscated items and a cessation of interference in union activities by January 8, 2025.”
Failure to comply, the NLC warned, would trigger “unprecedented measures” to defend workers’ rights.
Despite the prevailing challenges, Ajaero urged Nigerians to find hope and solidarity during the festive season, reaffirming the NLC’s commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of workers and the broader populace.
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