Telecom Tariff Hike: NLC Challenges FG Over Neglect Of Citizens' Welfare

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the Federal Government’s 50% telecom tariff hike, calling for a nationwide boycott and emphasizing its adverse impact on workers and citizens.

Labour Union Threatens Nationwide Boycott to Resist Telecom Tariff Hike

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed strong disapproval of the Federal Government’s decision to approve a 50% increase in telecom tariffs. This move, which comes amidst widespread economic hardship, has been described as an unjustifiable burden on Nigerian workers and citizens.

In a statement released by the NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, the tariff hike, approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), was criticized as a direct attack on workers’ welfare and a neglect of the masses’ needs in favor of corporate interests.

A Call to Action: NLC Urges Nationwide Resistance

Ajaero stressed the need for collective action, including the possibility of a nationwide boycott of telecommunication services, to compel the government to reverse the hike.

“This increase undermines our dignity and survival as a people. We urge all Nigerians to join forces and reject this punitive hike that prioritizes corporate profits over citizens’ welfare.”

Telecom Costs Strain Nigerian Workers

The NLC revealed alarming statistics highlighting the hike’s impact on workers:

The current minimum wage of ₦70,000 means telecom expenses could rise from ₦7,000 to ₦10,500 monthly.
This adjustment translates to 15% of a worker’s monthly income, making it unsustainable for the average citizen.

The NLC insists telecommunication services are essential and must remain accessible. Ajaero criticized the government for showing urgency in approving the tariff hike while delaying decisions that benefit workers, such as the minimum wage increment.

Questions of Accountability

The NLC President raised critical questions regarding government priorities:

When will the government prioritize the welfare of its citizens over corporate gains?
When will the National Assembly hold the executive accountable for such policies?
When will ordinary Nigerians experience relief from economic hardship?

Ajaero noted that while the NLC is not entirely against tariff reviews, the 50% increase is unreasonable and unacceptable. He urged the Federal Government, NCC, and National Assembly to suspend the implementation and engage in dialogue for a fair resolution.

NLC’s Position: A Fight for Equality and Fairness

The NLC reaffirmed its commitment to defending the interests of Nigerian workers and citizens. It pledged to resist policies that deepen poverty and inequality, emphasizing the importance of government accountability in protecting the rights and welfare of its people.