FG Engages NLC Leaders To Prevent Protest Over 50% Telecom Tariff Hike

In a bid to halt the planned nationwide protest on February 4 against the 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs, the Federal Government has invited the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its civil society allies for a crucial meeting today.

According to reports, the discussions will also address the NLC’s strong opposition to the ₦8 billion budgetary allocation for electricity bill sensitization, which the labour union has condemned as excessive and wasteful.

A source from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), which is coordinating the talks, confirmed that the meeting is scheduled to commence at 5 p.m. The source described the engagement as a “dialogue on matters of national interest as they affect Nigerian workers.”

The meeting, expected to include multiple ministries, will be led by the SGF and focus on the government’s justification for the telecom tariff adjustment. However, the NLC and its affiliates have remained resolute in their opposition, vowing not to accept the 50% tariff hike.

Despite their agreement to attend the meeting, labour leaders have continued mobilizing for the mass protest. In a letter dated January 30, NLC General Secretary, Emma Ugboaja, directed all affiliate unions and state councils to ensure full participation. He emphasized that the protest would serve as a strong message to the government regarding the economic hardship facing Nigerian workers and citizens.

The demonstration is set to begin at 7:00 a.m. across state capitals and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with protesters marching to National Communications Commission (NCC) offices or State Houses of Assembly to submit petitions against the tariff increase.

Labour leaders have maintained that, regardless of the meeting’s outcome, they will not back down from opposing the telecom tariff hike.

“At this time of massive hardship, your unwavering support and action are critical to defending ourselves and the nation from policies that impoverish us for the benefit of corporate elites,” the NLC declared.

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