NLC to protest telecom’s 50% tariff hike February 4

ABUJA (NAN)- The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has declared its intention to hold a nationwide rally on February 4 in response to the 50 percent increase in telecom service charges imposed by the Nigerian Communications Commission.

NLC president Joe Ajaero made this announcement in a statement following the union’s National Administrative Council meeting on Wednesday in Abuja. He indicated that the NAC-in-session deemed the 50 percent telecom tariff increase excessively burdensome for the populace.

Ajaero emphasized that the NLC would organize a mass rally on Tuesday to voice “our collective opposition to this arbitrary tariff hike.” He remarked, “The rally will act as a warning regarding the dangers of imposing such an unfair increase on a struggling population that earns a minimum wage of only N70,000.

“This is a population that has already endured significant increases in petrol prices, high food costs, rising electricity tariffs, and overall inflation. All NLC affiliates and state councils are instructed to commence full mobilization in preparation for the nationwide protest rally on February 4, 2025. Civil society allies who are willing are also encouraged to participate in the preparations.

“The congress urges all Nigerian workers, those in the informal sector, and the general public to unite against this unjust policy.”

Ajaero further stated that the NAC-in-session called for the immediate suspension of the 50 percent tariff increase.

He also urged the federal government, NCC, and the National Assembly to engage in constructive dialogue with key stakeholders to reassess the proposed tariff adjustment. He called for a review of the tariff hike in light of the economic challenges facing Nigerians.

“Should these requests be ignored, the Nigeria Labour Congress will intensify its actions, which may include a nationwide boycott of telecommunication services. Additional measures may involve widespread protests and a withdrawal of our services to resist policies that worsen poverty and inequality,” Ajaero stated.

He reiterated that the NLC is dedicated to safeguarding the interests of Nigerian workers and citizens against exploitative economic policies. “We will not waver in our fight against policies that compromise the welfare and dignity of our people,” he concluded.