The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly opposed the recent 50% tariff hike by telecommunication companies, demanding an immediate reversal to the previous rates.
The NLC and the Federal Government had previously set up a 10-man committee to review the proposed tariff increase within two weeks before implementing any final decision. However, telecom firms proceeded with the hike despite this agreement, prompting the NLC to issue a March 1 deadline for a complete shutdown of their operations if the prices are not reverted.
In a communique signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emma Ugboaja, the union accused telecom companies of breaching trust and bypassing due process. The Congress also criticized the government for failing to protect citizens from corporate exploitation.
As an initial response, the NLC has urged Nigerian workers and citizens to boycott MTN, Airtel, and Glo services daily between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM from February 13 to the end of February 2025. Additionally, it called for a halt to purchasing data from these companies, citing concerns over excessive charges.
The union also demanded the repatriation of funds allegedly siphoned abroad by telecom firms.
“If the telecommunications companies fail to revert to the old tariff by the end of February 2025, a total shutdown of their operations nationwide will commence from March 1, 2025,” the statement warned.
The NLC has directed its State Councils and Affiliate Unions to begin mobilizing workers and the public for the boycott and potential shutdown.
Meanwhile, the Congress also reviewed ongoing discussions on the Tax Reform Bills and emphasized that any fiscal policies must ease economic hardships on Nigerian workers rather than exacerbate them.
