The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has called for a reversal of the tenancy and lease duty stamp introduced by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
The NLC made the call on Saturday, July 25, while reacting to the new duty.
In a statement issued by the NLC President, Ayuba Wabba, he said that the new mandate will affect Nigerians, especially at a time when there is socio-economic pressure arising from COVID-19 pandemic.
According to him, the NLC rejects this new stamp duty policy on rents and leases as it will worsen the situation faced by Nigerian workers most of whom, unfortunately, are tenants.
“It is also alarming that we are having a hike in taxes, and user access fees when other countries are offering palliatives to their citizens.
“We call on the Federal Government and the Federal Inland Revenue Service to rescind this harsh fiscal measure; as it is boldly insensitive to the material condition of Nigerians which has been compounded by the COVID-19.
“Nobody would want to be a tenant if they had an alternative. This means that tenants in which these new policy targets are some of the most vulnerable people in our society.
“It would be illogical, insensitive and inhuman to churn out laws; that make our poor go to bed at night with tears in their eyes,” he said.
Wabba noted that the principle of public taxation; especially progressive taxation all over the world was that the rich subsidises for the poor; and that every tax policy that would be enforceable must create a safety net for the poor.
