Nigeria’s labour union has rejected a government-approved 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs and announced plans for a nationwide protest on Feb. 4.
NLC Calls for Nationwide Protest Against Tariff Increase
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has vehemently rejected the recent 50% increase in mobile tariffs approved by the telecoms regulator, citing its insensitivity to the plight of citizens already struggling with high inflation, currency devaluation, and the worst cost-of-living crisis in a generation.
In a meeting held late on Wednesday, January 30, NLC leaders condemned the increase as “unjustifiable and a direct assault” on the population.
Background of the Tariff Hike
The telecoms regulator’s approval of the tariff hike marks the first such increase in over a decade. Operators have been struggling with surging costs, forcing the regulator to bow to pressure and approve the increase.
NLC’s Response and Call to Action
The NLC President Joe Ajaero has called for a nationwide protest against the tariff hike, stating that “the rally will serve as a warning on the dangers of imposing such an unfair increase on a struggling population”.
Ajaero cited high food costs, hikes in petrol and electricity prices, and the overall economic hardship faced by Nigerians.
Finally, the union called for an immediate suspension of the tariff adjustment and dialogue between the government, the regulator and union leaders.
The NLC, representing millions of Nigerian workers, has repeatedly clashed with the government over economic reforms which it says worsens poverty, but officials have argue the measures are necessary to stabilise the economy.
