NLC Threatens Telecom Shutdown Over Tariff Hike

NLC Fumes Over Telecom Tariff Hike, Threatens Nationwide Shutdown by March 1

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly criticized the recent hike in telecommunications tariffs, citing a breach of agreement between telecom operators, the Federal Government, and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The union has issued an ultimatum, warning of dire consequences if the new tariffs are not reversed by the end of February 2025.

Telecom Operators Dismiss NLC’s Threats

Despite the NLC’s warnings, telecom operators have countered that any disruption of services could be considered a serious offense, potentially bordering on treasonable felony. This standoff follows a meeting held two weeks ago between the Federal Government and the NLC, where a proposal to cap the tariff increase at 50% was discussed.

To address the issue, a 10-member committee was established, with equal representation from both parties, and tasked with reviewing the tariff changes within two weeks. However, despite the ongoing discussions, some telecom providers have already implemented a 50% increase in data charges.

NLC’s Call for Action

The NLC has declared that if telecom companies fail to roll back the price hike by February 2025, a full-scale shutdown of telecom services across Nigeria will commence on March 1, 2025.

As a preliminary measure, the labor union has urged workers and citizens to boycott the services of major telecom providers—MTN, Airtel, and Glo—daily between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, effective from February 13 until the end of the month.

Union Leaders Mobilize for Protest

During a Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting held in Lokoja, Kogi State, on February 11, NLC leaders directed state councils and affiliated unions to begin mass mobilization and public sensitization campaigns.

A communiqué signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emma Ugboaja outlined key resolutions from the meeting, which addressed:

The 50% telecom tariff hike
The proposed Tax Reform Bills
The rollout of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses in Nigeria’s North-Central zone

NLC Condemns Telecom Companies’ Actions

The NLC strongly criticized telecom operators for proceeding with the tariff hike despite ongoing negotiations. The labor body labeled the move as:

A betrayal of trust
A disregard for due process and regulatory agreements
A demonstration of corporate dominance over government policies

The communiqué emphasized that the tariff increase highlights regulatory weaknesses and the government’s failure to protect the interests of workers and the general public.

What’s Next?

With the standoff intensifying, Nigerians may witness significant disruptions in telecom services if the NLC follows through on its planned shutdown. The government, telecom operators, and labor leaders must urgently find a resolution to prevent nationwide inconvenience.

For further details on regulatory decisions affecting telecom tariffs, visit the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) official website.