NLC to Protest Nationwide Over 50% Telecom Tariff Hike
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has vowed to take a stand against the proposed 50% increase in telecom tariffs, announcing a nationwide protest scheduled for Tuesday, February 4, 2025.
The labor union argues that this hike will worsen the economic hardship already faced by Nigerian workers and the general public.
The decision for the protest was reached during an ongoing meeting of the National Administrative Council (NAC) of the NLC, according to sources within the organization.
The move is meant to serve as a warning to the government that workers will not accept policies that deepen financial struggles across the country.
NLC Rejects Telecom Tariff Increase
The controversy began when the Federal Government, through the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), approved a 50% increase in telecommunication charges.
On January 22, 2025, the NLC officially rejected this decision, describing it as a direct attack on the welfare of Nigerian citizens.
In a strongly worded statement titled “50% Telecom Tariff Hike: Another Burden Too Harsh!”, NLC President Joe Ajaero criticized the move, calling it an abandonment of the people in favor of corporate profits.
How the Tariff Hike Affects Workers
Ajaero explained how the increase will drastically impact the average Nigerian worker:
Increased Telecom Costs: Currently, a worker earning the N70,000 minimum wage spends around N7,000 monthly on telecom services. With the new tariff, this figure could rise to N10,500, making up 15% of their salary.
More Financial Struggles: Many Nigerians are already struggling with the rising cost of living, inflation, and poor wages. The telecom hike will only worsen these economic burdens.
Government’s Priorities Questioned: The NLC noted the speed at which the government approved the tariff hike, compared to the slow response in increasing the minimum wage, highlighting a bias towards corporate interests over the welfare of the people.
NLC Calls for Action
The labor union has demanded an immediate reversal of the tariff hike and called on:
The Federal Government and NCC to halt the implementation and engage in discussions.
The National Assembly to step up and protect Nigerians from unfair economic policies.
Workers and the general public to prepare for mass action, including a potential nationwide boycott of telecom services.
> “This is a fight for our dignity, our rights, and our survival. We will not allow this injustice to stand,” Ajaero declared.
What Happens Next?
With the NLC gearing up for protests and possibly more industrial action, all eyes are on the government and telecom regulators. Will they reconsider their stance, or will Nigerians be forced to bear yet another financial burden?
Stay updated on this developing story only on NIGPOST.
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