Telecom Tariff Hike: NLC Stands Firm on Protest, Declares No U-Turn

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) remains resolute in its decision to protest against the telecom tariff hike, rejecting any possibility of backing down.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has confirmed its determination to go ahead with a nationwide protest on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. This demonstration is in response to the recent approval of a 50 percent tariff increase by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

The scheduled demonstration is anticipated to occur simultaneously across all 36 states of the federation, as well as in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The NLC has labeled the tariff hike as unfair and onerous, highlighting its adverse effect on Nigerian consumers who are already facing economic difficulties. The union urged citizens and civil society organizations to participate in a peaceful protest to call for the decision’s reversal.

The NLC had earlier warned of a potential boycott of telecommunication services, labeling the tariff increase as an “attack on workers’ welfare” and accusing it of being “a betrayal that leaves people at the mercy of wealthy corporations.”

NLC President Joe Ajaero emphasized the economic strain that the increase would place on Nigerians, highlighting telecommunications as vital for communication, work, and information access.

A senior official from the National Administrative Council (NAC) of the NLC confirmed to our correspondent that, despite calls for cancellation, the Congress remains steadfast in its decision and plans to proceed with industrial action just 48 hours before it is set to begin.

“We have received calls from individuals and organizations requesting the rally’s cancellation. However, this event is intended to be peaceful, with no aim of causing destruction or disrupting public order.”

After the NLC’s announcement, an opposing group called the Nigeria Citizen Watch for Good Governance (NCWGG) challenged the validity of the protest and expressed its opposition to the proposed demonstration.

When questioned about whether the Congress was under pressure to cancel the protest, an official responded that if the 50 percent tariff increase had been negotiated sincerely, then holding the rally also serves as a demonstration of good faith.

“If the government makes decisions without thoroughly considering all sectors, particularly Nigerian workers, we have the right to voice our dissent and express our concerns.”

We are advocating for a functional society where the poor are not exploited to benefit those who have positioned themselves in power, rather than supporting any form of destruction.

Once more, a rally will take place, and we refuse to be intimidated.

As for the Trade Union Congress (TUC)’s involvement in the protest, the source explained that the decision to hold the rally was made exclusively by NLC’s NAC and did not involve its sister organization.

Nonetheless, the official underscored the unity between the two labor unions by stating, “An injury to one is an injury to all.”

“When we opted to hold a rally, it wasn’t planned as a joint meeting with the TUC. Despite being sister unions that support one another, we firmly believe in the principle that an injury to one is an injury to all.”

“They are welcome to join if they decide to do so,” the source stated.