NLC Plans Telecoms Boycott Nationwide Protest Over Tariff Hike On February 4

NLC Plans Telecoms Boycott Nationwide Protest Over Tariff Hike On February 4

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to stage a nationwide protest on February 4 in response to the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) approval of a 50% increase in telecom tariffs. The decision was made during the NLC’s National Administrative Council meeting on January 29 and was confirmed in a communiqué signed by its National President, Joe Ajaero…READ MORE…

In addition to the protest, the NLC warned that failure to reverse the tariff hike could lead to a nationwide boycott of telecommunications services.

Several Civil Society Organisations, including the Civil Society Legislative and Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria, and the Take It Back Movement, have also pledged their support for the demonstration, condemning the price increase.

The Federal Government had approved a 50% tariff hike, although telecom operators initially requested a 100% increase.

Labour’s Rejection of the Hike

Expressing its strong opposition, the NLC described the tariff increase as “insensitive, unjustifiable, and a direct assault on Nigerian workers and the general populace, who are already struggling with economic hardships.”

Joe Ajaero, NLC President, emphasized that the proposed increase would only add to the financial strain on citizens, who are already dealing with high inflation, fuel price hikes, electricity tariff increases, and rising costs of living.

“To demonstrate our collective resistance to this unjust tariff hike, the NLC will hold a nationwide protest on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. This rally serves as a warning against imposing such an unfair burden on a struggling population earning a minimum wage of just ₦70,000,” Ajaero stated.

He directed all NLC affiliates and state councils to mobilize their members for the protest, encouraging willing civil society groups to join.

Labour’s Demands and Potential Boycott

The NLC is demanding an immediate suspension of the 50% tariff hike and is calling on the Federal Government, the NCC, and the National Assembly to engage in dialogue with stakeholders to review the proposed increase.

Ajaero warned that if the government fails to meet these demands, the NLC may escalate its actions, including a nationwide boycott of telecom services and mass protests that could involve a withdrawal of labour services.

“The Nigeria Labour Congress remains committed to protecting Nigerian workers and citizens from exploitative economic policies. We will not relent in resisting policies that worsen poverty and inequality,” Ajaero added.

Civil Society Groups Back Protest

CISLAC’s Executive Director, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, reaffirmed the group’s commitment to siding with Nigerians against excessive corporate profiteering.

“We support any action aimed at bringing down these prices and easing the economic burden on Nigerians. CISLAC will always stand with the people against multinational corporations and government collaborators who exploit the masses,” Rafsanjani stated.

The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) also expressed discontent, with its Executive Director, Blessing Akinlosotu, revealing plans to picket the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Council (FCCPC) office.

“We have officially submitted a letter notifying the FCCPC of our displeasure and our intent to protest the tariff increase. Over 20 organizations have written to express their opposition,” Akinlosotu disclosed.

Telecom Operators Push Back Against Labour’s Protest

Telecommunications companies and industry stakeholders have criticized the NLC’s planned protest, arguing that it unfairly targets their sector while price hikes in other industries have gone largely unchallenged.

Tony Emoekpere, Chairman of the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria, questioned why labour unions had not protested increases in food prices, transportation fares, and other essential goods.

“When the prices of tomatoes, onions, and bread went up, did we see any protests? Why single out telecoms?” he asked.

Emoekpere argued that the tariff adjustment is necessary to sustain the industry and improve service quality.

“The increase is tied to improving service delivery. If the sector is not financially stable, it will struggle to meet consumer demands,” he noted.

Telecom Subscribers Association Seeks Compromise

The National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (ATCIS) has proposed reducing the tariff hike to 10% instead of 50%. However, its negotiations with the NCC ended in a deadlock.

ATCIS National President, Sina Bilesanmi, dismissed the NLC’s planned protest, insisting that the price adjustment was finalized after extensive consultations with key stakeholders, including the NCC and the Ministry of Communications.

“The 50% hike has already been implemented. There’s no need for further protests,” Bilesanmi said.

While labour unions and civil society groups prepare for mass action, the debate over the telecom tariff hike continues, with both sides standing firm on their positions.

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