The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced its intention to stage a nationwide mass rally on February 4, 2025, in response to the Nigeria Communications Commission’s (NCC) recent decision to raise telecom tariffs by 50 percent.
This declaration was made by NLC President Mr. Joe Ajaero following a meeting of the Congress’s National Administrative Council (NAC) held in Abuja on Wednesday.
During the meeting, the NAC unanimously condemned the tariff increase, labeling it excessively burdensome for the Nigerian populace. Ajaero articulated the Congress’s collective opposition, stating, “To express our collective opposition to this arbitrary tariff hike, the NLC will embark on a nationwide mass rally.”
Ajaero elaborated on the socio-economic context, noting that “the rally will serve as a warning on the dangers of imposing such an unfair increase on a struggling population earning a minimum wage of only N70,000.”
He highlighted the challenges the population has faced, including soaring petrol prices, escalating food costs, increased electricity tariffs, and pervasive inflation.
The NLC has directed all its affiliates and state councils to commence mobilization efforts in preparation for the upcoming protest. Additionally, Ajaero urged civil society organizations to join in solidarity.
“The Congress calls on all Nigerian workers, the informal sector, and the general public to stand in solidarity against this unjust policy,” he said.
In light of the increasing financial strain on citizens, Ajaero also called for the immediate suspension of the proposed tariff hike. He urged the Federal Government, the NCC, and the National Assembly to engage in constructive dialogues with relevant stakeholders to reassess the tariff adjustments, ensuring they reflect the economic realities faced by Nigerians.
He emphasized that failure to consider these recommendations could result in the NLC executing more drastic measures. “Should these not be heeded, the Nigeria Labour Congress will escalate its actions, including the possibility of a nationwide boycott of telecommunication services,” Ajaero warned.
He reiterated the NLC’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of Nigerian workers and the broader population against exploitative economic policies. “We will not relent in our struggle against policies that undermine the welfare and dignity of our people,” he asserted.
