Nigerian govt trying to continue extorting ‘helpless’ citizens through cybersecurity levy: NLC
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has rejected the recent directive by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for a 0.5 (0.005) per cent cybersecurity levy on electronic transfers.
Joe Ajaero, NLC president, stated the congress’ position in a statement made available to journalists on Tuesday in Abuja.
“This levy stands as another tax too much for Nigerians, burdening them with additional financial responsibilities,” said Mr Ajaero. “We see in this levy as another gang up by the ruling elite to continue its extortion and exploitation of hapless and helpless workers and the masses.”
The CBN had mandated banks and payment service operators to effect the deductions, effective in two weeks, saying the move, “ostensibly aimed at bolstering cybersecurity measures, threatens to exacerbate the financial strain already faced by the populace.”
Mr Ajaero said the NLC vehemently condemned the directives and therefore called for immediate stoppage and reversal of the policy.
“The Nigeria Labour Congress recognises the importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital age,” said Mr Ajaero. “However, imposing such a levy on electronic transactions, without due consideration for its implications on workers and the vulnerable segments of society, is unjustifiable.”
He noted that while the CBN had exempted interbank transfers and loan transactions from the levy, the broader impact on everyday transactions would not be overlooked.
The NLC president also noted that domestic manufacturers and other businesses were already shuttering due to the stifling socioeconomic environment.
He added that, yet, instead of creating a business-friendly environment to encourage greater investments in the economy, the opposite seems to be what is being practised.
Mr Ajaero called on the federal government to reconsider the directives and prioritise policies that alleviate Nigeria’s financial burdens.
“We urge a collaborative approach between the government, regulatory bodies, and stakeholders to develop sustainable cybersecurity measures that do not unduly burden the populace.
“We reiterate our commitment to championing the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers and masses,” he said.
(NAN)
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
States
Independence: NBA urges Nigerians to expect better future
The NBA said that ordinary Nigerians should be deriving benefit from the subsidy removal rather than hardship.
Agriculture
FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology
The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
Heading 2
Tinubu’s economic reforms yielding results despite doubts: Bagudu
Mr Bagudu described Mr Tinubu as a visionary leader whose decisions demonstrated courage and commitment to national development.
Sport
Flamingos lose 2-1 to Poland in FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup opener
Poland’s Natalia Skrok made it two in the second half when Blanka Zajac, in the 65th minute, crossed into the Nigerian penalty area.
States
Gov Mbah scraps N750 daily ticket fee for Enugu tricycle operators, extends work hours
Mr Mbah also disclosed that tricycle operators would continue to use the state’s modern transport terminals free of charge.
States
FG unveils five-point strategy to tackle banditry, terrorism in Sokoto
Mr Ribadu called for sustained security deployments around vulnerable settlements, forest corridors and border communities.
Politics
2027: Wike urges Rivers traditional leaders to avoid ‘mistake’, back Tinubu for prosperity
Mr Wike said, “Supporting Tinubu is a support for prosperity.”
Heading 4
NAPTIP raises alarm over rise in parents’ facilitation of children’s sexual exploitation
The NAPTIP boss said parents and guardians were facilitating the sexual exploitation of their children to make money.
