NLC Declares War on Telecom Tariff Hike, Threatens Nationwide Boycott
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern ultimatum to the Federal Government, rejecting its approval of a 50% increase in telecommunication tariffs and mobilising Nigerians for a potential nationwide boycott of telecom services.
In a statement released Wednesday, NLC President Joe Ajaero condemned the hike as a “crushing blow” to Nigerians already overwhelmed by inflation and dwindling purchasing power.
“The Nigeria Labour Congress expresses its unequivocal condemnation of the Federal Government’s recent approval, through the Nigerian Communications Commission, of a 50% increase in telecommunication tariffs,” Ajaero declared. “This decision, coming at a time when Nigerian workers and the masses are grappling with unprecedented economic hardship, is a clear assault on their welfare and an abandonment of the people to corporate fat cats.”
Telecom Charges Now ‘Unsustainable’
Ajaero highlighted the financial burden the hike would impose, noting that telecommunication services are indispensable for modern life.
“An average Nigerian worker already spends approximately 10% of their wages on telecom charges. For a worker earning the current minimum wage of ₦70,000, this means an increase from ₦7,000 to a staggering ₦10,500 per month or 15% of his salary — a cost that is unsustainable,” he said.
Government Prioritising Profits Over People
The labour leader accused the government of prioritising corporate profits over citizens’ welfare, pointing out the glaring speed of the tariff approval compared to the delay in implementing the new minimum wage.
“This hike exemplifies the government’s apparent ease in prioritising corporate profits over citizens’ welfare. We must ask: When will the government stand for the people it swore to protect?” Ajaero asked.
Call for Collective Resistance
The NLC is rallying Nigerians to reject the tariff hike and prepare for nationwide resistance, including a boycott of telecom services, to compel a reversal of the decision.
“We urge citizens to prepare for collective action, including the possibility of a nationwide boycott of telecommunication services, to compel the reversal of this punitive increase,” Ajaero announced.
While stating that the NLC is open to dialogue on a reasonable tariff review, he emphasised that the approved 50% increase is unacceptable.
“This is for our dignity, our rights, and our survival as a people,” he said. “The Nigeria Labour Congress remains resolute in defending the interests of Nigerian workers and the masses. Together, we will resist this injustice and demand that the government prioritises its citizens over corporate interests.”
The NLC has called on the Nigerian Communications Commission, the National Assembly, and the government to halt the tariff implementation and engage in meaningful dialogue to explore more sustainable alternatives.