Tariff Hike: NLC Threatens Nationwide Telecoms Boycott

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning to the Nigerian government and telecommunications companies, threatening a nationwide boycott of telecom services in response to the recent 50% increase in tariffs.

The NLC argues that this hike, approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), constitutes a grave injustice to Nigerian citizens already burdened by economic hardship.

NLC President Joe Ajaero expressed deep concern over the timing of the increase, which coincides with rising inflation and a decline in purchasing power. He emphasized that telecommunications have become an essential service for daily life, work, and accessing information. With the average Nigerian worker already dedicating approximately 10% of their income to telecom charges, this 50% increase would place an unsustainable financial strain on ordinary citizens.

Ajaero criticized the government for prioritizing corporate interests over the welfare of its citizens. He pointed out the stark contrast between the swift approval of the tariff hike and the lengthy delay in implementing the recently revised minimum wage. This disparity, he argued, underscores the government’s apparent disregard for the needs and struggles of its people.

The NLC is not entirely opposed to tariff adjustments but firmly believes that the approved 50% increase is excessive and unjustified. The union has called for a dialogue between the government, the NCC, and stakeholders to determine a more reasonable and humane level of increase.

To compel a reversal of the hike, the NLC is urging Nigerian citizens to prepare for collective action. This includes the possibility of a nationwide boycott of telecommunication services, a measure aimed at demonstrating the public’s dissatisfaction and forcing a reconsideration of the government’s decision.