The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has strongly criticized the recently signed 2024 budget by President Ahmed Tinubu, asserting that it was crafted to favour the ruling class at the expense of the majority of the country.

 

In its New Year message, the TUC expressed deep concern over the state of the economy, which it described as being on the brink of collapse, exacerbated by the provisions of the budget.

 

According to TUC, the allocation of N8.25 trillion for debt servicing is a significant flaw in the budget, rendering it incapable of fostering national economic growth or alleviating the widespread poverty and suffering experienced by the Nigerian people.

 

 

The organisation noted the stark contrast between the extravagant lifestyles of the political class and the harsh realities faced by the citizens, emphasising the potential danger posed by over 33.3% unemployment and pervasive poverty.

 

 

TUC criticized what it deemed as inadequate measures taken by the National University Commission (NUC) and the Federal Ministry of Education in response to the certificate syndicate revelation, labelling them as “panicky, kangaroo, and fire brigade measures.”

 

 

The organisation called for a more comprehensive investigation into internal collusion that facilitated the operations of the certificate syndicate and stressed the urgency of holding those responsible accountable.

 

In the New Year message, TUC underscored the need for the government to take decisive actions to preserve the integrity of the educational system and address the compromised standards.

 

 

It demanded the implementation of agreements between labour and the government, including the prompt payment of the N35,000 monthly wage award to public servants.

 

 

Additionally, TUC called for a concerted effort to reduce inflation, an end to unnecessary loans taken by the government, and a review of the high petrol prices. The organization emphasized the importance of community policing, urged the government to engage in dialogue with marginalized groups, and called for unity among Nigerians to ensure a promising 2024.

 

In the words of TUC, “The economy has actually been on its knees, gasping for breath. But that did not stop or even deter roguish and unpatriotic privileged few from feasting on our common patrimony…”