Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced a nationwide protest scheduled for February 4, 2025, in response to the recent 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs. The labour union has directed its affiliate unions and state chapters across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to begin full mobilization for the mass action.
The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, issued the directive on Wednesday at the Labour House in Abuja following a meeting of the National Administrative Council (NAC). Ajaero described the tariff hike as “insensitive, unjustifiable, and a direct assault on Nigerian workers and the general populace,” emphasizing that it would further strain citizens already struggling with the rising cost of living.
A Warning Against Economic Hardship
Reading from the communiqué issued at the end of the NAC meeting, Ajaero stated that the protest rally would serve as a warning to authorities about the dangers of imposing an “unfair” tariff increase on a population grappling with economic difficulties.
“This arbitrary hike is being forced on a struggling population earning a minimum wage of only N70,000 while battling skyrocketing petrol prices, high food costs, increased electricity tariffs, and rising inflation,” Ajaero said.
He urged all NLC affiliates, state councils, and willing civil society groups to fully engage in preparations for the February 4 rally to demand a reversal of the tariff hike.
Labour’s Demands and Possible Escalation
The NLC called on the federal government, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and the National Assembly to engage in meaningful dialogue with key stakeholders to review the tariff adjustment in light of Nigeria’s economic realities.
Following extensive deliberations, the NAC-in-session made the following resolutions:
- Total rejection of the 50% telecom tariff hike, describing it as “harsh and unjustifiable.”
- Demand for immediate suspension of the approved tariff increase.
- Condemnation of the NCC’s decision to approve the new rates, calling it an “assault on Nigerian workers and citizens.”
- Call for nationwide solidarity among workers, the informal sector, and the general public against what it termed an “exploitative economic policy.”
The NLC warned that if its demands were ignored, it would escalate its actions, which could include a nationwide boycott of telecommunications services and a possible mass withdrawal of labour.
Commitment to Workers’ Welfare
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting the interests of Nigerian workers and citizens, the NLC vowed to resist policies that exacerbate poverty and inequality.
“We will not relent in our struggle against policies that undermine the welfare and dignity of our people. Nigerian workers and citizens must unite and take action to prevent further economic oppression,” the communiqué stated.
The NLC emphasized that any policy prioritizing corporate profits over the well-being of the people must be resisted. The February 4 protest is expected to be a major demonstration of public opposition to the tariff increase.
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