NLC leads opposition to telecom tariff hike, threatens nationwide action

DDM News

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly condemned the recent 50% hike in telecommunications tariffs.

Calling it a severe blow to the welfare of Nigerian workers and the general public, the NLC issued a stern warning to the government.

According to Diaspora digital media (DDM) report, the union threatened a nationwide boycott of telecom services if the increase is not reversed.

The NLC accused the government of prioritizing corporate profits over the well-being of citizens.

Highlighting the economic challenges facing Nigerians, the NLC expressed its displeasure over the approval of the tariff hike.

Speaking at Labour House in Abuja, NLC President Joe Ajaero criticized the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for its insensitivity to the struggles of the average Nigerian.

He described the tariff hike as unacceptable.

The NLC also faulted lawmakers for failing to hold the government accountable for its policies.

The union argued that this failure left citizens to bear the brunt of inflation and rising costs of living.

“The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) condemns the Federal Government’s approval, through the Nigerian Communications Commission, of a 50% increase in telecommunication tariffs,” Ajaero said.

“This decision is unacceptable and comes at a time when Nigerian workers and the masses are already battling unprecedented economic hardship.”

“It is an outright betrayal of the people and a prioritization of corporate interests over citizens’ welfare.”

The NLC emphasized that the tariff hike would worsen the economic burden on Nigerian workers.

The union stated that workers already spend a significant portion of their income on telecommunications.

For a worker earning the current minimum wage of ₦70,000, the increase would raise monthly telecom expenses from ₦7,000 to ₦10,500.

This increase would consume 15% of their salary.

The NLC argued that such costs are unsustainable, especially amid inflation and declining purchasing power.

The union questioned the government’s rationale for approving such a drastic hike.

Ajaero criticized the government for taking months to implement the recent minimum wage increase for workers.

According to Ajaero, this disparity reveals a troubling reality.

He argued that the government seems more aligned with the interests of wealthy corporations than with its citizens.

“The government’s approval of this 50% tariff increase is a glaring example of misplaced priorities,” Ajaero said.

“While telecom companies secured this approval within weeks, workers had to wait nearly a year for the recent minimum wage adjustment.”

“This contrast underscores the government’s lack of commitment to protecting its people from economic hardship.”

The NLC called on Nigerian workers and citizens to reject the tariff hike.

The union urged citizens to prepare for collective action to demand its reversal.

The union hinted at the possibility of a nationwide boycott of telecommunications services.

“This fight is for our dignity, rights, and survival,” Ajaero declared.

“The Nigeria Labour Congress remains steadfast in its mission to defend the interests of Nigerian workers and the masses.”

“We urge all Nigerians to stand together and resist this unjustifiable tariff hike.”

The NLC criticized the government for neglecting the critical role of telecommunications in modern life.

With services essential for daily communication, work, and access to information, the tariff hike could have widespread negative impacts.

The union argued that the government should focus on policies that promote affordability and accessibility for all Nigerians.

The NCC defended its decision to approve the 50% increase, citing prevailing market conditions.

Its spokesperson, Reuben Mouka, explained that the adjustment was made under the regulatory powers granted by Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.

Mouka noted that the increase was a compromise, as some network operators had initially requested a 100% hike.

The NLC dismissed this justification, arguing that the government’s duty is to protect citizens from exploitative practices.

The union questioned why the NCC prioritized corporate demands over the welfare of the people.

“Telecom services are not luxuries but necessities in today’s world,” Ajaero stated.

“The government should work to make these services affordable, not place additional financial strain on already struggling citizens.”

“This hike only deepens poverty and inequality, which the government should be working to reduce.”

The NLC urged the government to engage in dialogue to address the tariff issue.

The union proposed a more humane and gradual adjustment if necessary.

The NLC maintained that any increase should consider the economic realities of Nigerian workers and citizens.

“If a hike is truly unavoidable, then the government must consult with stakeholders to agree on a fair and manageable increase,” Ajaero said.

“The current 50% hike is outrageous and unacceptable.”

“We will continue to resist policies that entrench poverty and inequality in our society.”

The NLC’s call for action reflects widespread frustration with the government’s handling of economic policies.

Many Nigerians view the tariff hike as yet another burden added to their daily struggles.

The union’s threats of a telecom boycott signal its determination to ensure the voices of the masses are heard.

As the controversy unfolds, all eyes remain on the government’s response to the NLC’s demands.

Will the authorities reconsider the hike, or will the nation witness unprecedented collective action by workers and citizens?

For now, the NLC’s message is clear: the fight for fairness and economic justice has only just begun.

With eight mentions of the NLC in its statement, the union’s resolve to challenge the tariff hike is evident.

It continues to emphasize the need for government policies that prioritize the welfare of the people over the interests of corporations.

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