Joe Ajaero Leads NLC Revolt Against Telecom Tariff Hike, Threatens Boycott

Joe Ajaero Leads NLC Revolt Against Telecom Tariff Hike, Threatens Boycott

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), led by Comrade Joe Ajaero, has firmly opposed the proposed 50% increase in telecom tariffs by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in collaboration with telecom operators…READ MORE…

Speaking on Channels TV on Thursday, Ajaero described the proposed hike as an undue burden on Nigerians already struggling with rising inflation, high transportation costs, increased electricity tariffs, and a general economic downturn.

He questioned the justification for the increase, noting the telecom sector’s significant growth over the years. “When GSM operators started in Nigeria, the subscriber base was less than 50,000. Today, we have over 200 million active lines. Despite this massive expansion and profitability, they claim they can’t sustain operations without a 50% hike. This does not reflect the reality of their financial success,” Ajaero said.

The NLC President warned that the proposed tariff increase would further escalate inflation and worsen the economic hardship faced by millions of Nigerians. “Raising telecom tariffs, like electricity tariffs, creates a cycle of inflation that Nigerians, already burdened by economic challenges, cannot afford,” he stated.

Ajaero criticized the lack of stakeholder consultation, calling it a violation of the principles of tariff modeling. “Major decisions like this require input from key stakeholders, including labor unions, civil society organizations, and consumers. Unfortunately, this process has been ignored,” he said.

While rejecting the hike outright, Ajaero called for immediate stakeholder engagement to explore sustainable alternatives that would not jeopardize Nigerians’ livelihoods.

“Our stance is clear: any increase must be equitable and based on proper consultation. Arbitrary figures imposed without considering their impact on the public are unacceptable. We will engage labor unions, civil society, and Nigerians to determine the best course of action,” Ajaero said.

He also hinted at the possibility of a nationwide boycott if the hike is imposed, stating that the final decision would reflect the collective will of Nigerians.

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