The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has passionately condemned the recent 50% tariff hike imposed by telecommunications companies.
They view this increase as exploitative and are calling for an immediate reversal.
With an urgent tone, the labor body has warned that serious repercussions will follow if the increase is not rescinded, announcing a deadline of March 1, 2025, for a nationwide shutdown of telecom operations.
Interestingly, there was already an agreement in place involving the Federal Government, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and telecom operators to collaboratively review tariffs.
However, the companies decided to implement the hike unilaterally, which has prompted sharp condemnation from the NLC.
They accuse the telecom firms of breaching trust and ignoring proper procedures in this decision-making process.
The NLC launched nationwide resistance measures against telecom tariff hikes, initiating daily 11 AM-2 PM service boycotts for MTN, Airtel, and Glo from February 13-28.
Simultaneously, they instructed Nigerians to suspend data purchases and mobilized state chapters for public awareness campaigns.
Leaders condemned telecom firms for prioritizing profits and criticized government inaction against corporate exploitation.
Furthermore, the Congress scrutinized pending Tax Reform Bills, acknowledging fiscal needs while opposing worker-burdening clauses.
They pledged to advocate equitable tax policies protecting labor rights.
Additionally, the NLC set a February 29 reversal deadline, threatening complete telecom shutdowns starting March 1 if demands remain unmet.
They urged civil society collaboration to combat what they term “economic extortion tactics.”
This standoff between the NLC and telecom operators highlights the increasing tensions over the rising costs of living in Nigeria.
This situation highlights larger worries about corporate accountability.
Moreover, it emphasizes the urgent need for effective government oversight to protect citizens’ interests.
