THE Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the 50% tariff hike imposed by telecommunication companies, demanding an immediate reversal to the previous rates.
The union accused the telecom firms of betraying public trust by proceeding with the increase despite an earlier agreement to allow a 10-man committee review the new tariff structure before implementation.
Following a meeting of the NLC Central Working Committee in Lokoja, a communiqué signed by President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emma Ugboaja criticized the government’s failure to protect citizens from corporate exploitation.
The NLC warned that if the tariff is not reversed, it will initiate a nationwide shutdown of telecom services from March 1, 2025.
As an initial form of protest, the NLC directed Nigerian workers and other concerned citizens to boycott MTN, Airtel, and Glo services daily between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM from February 13, 2025, until the end of the month. The union also called for a suspension of data purchases, arguing that excessive charges on internet services have become a major tool for exploiting Nigerians.
In addition to reversing the tariff, the NLC demanded the repatriation of funds siphoned abroad by telecom companies. It instructed all state councils and affiliate unions to begin immediate sensitization and mobilization of workers and the general public.
Beyond the telecom issue, the union also reviewed ongoing discussions surrounding the Tax Reform Bills being considered by the government. While acknowledging the need for fiscal adjustments, the NLC insisted that any tax policies must ease the financial burden on Nigerian workers rather than worsening economic hardship