Telecom tariff hike: Labour proposes 5% increase

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has opposed the proposed 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), suggesting a more reasonable 5% hike as an alternative, citing the economic hardship faced by Nigerians.

Speaking on Channels TV’s Sunrise Daily on Thursday, NLC spokesman Benson Upah condemned the planned increase, calling it an unjust burden on already struggling citizens.

“They keep emasculating us with ridiculous taxes. It will come to a point when people can pay, but they won’t. This is really to halt this mindless tariff increase,” Upah stated.

He added: “If there has to be an increase at all, 5% should be the limit, considering the multiple hikes across sectors. But now, to say 50%? It is not going to work. Where will ordinary Nigerians be at the end of the day when we already have energy tariff increases?”

The NLC has issued directives to its state councils and affiliate unions to mobilize for a nationwide protest against the proposed hike.

A letter dated January 30 and signed by NLC General Secretary Emma Ugboaja instructed state councils to organize a peaceful rally in all state capitals and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 7 a.m.

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“The rally shall take place in various state capitals and the FCT. You are expected to coordinate all affiliates in your states and work with volunteering civil society partners for an effective demonstration,” the letter stated.

The protest procession will march to NCC offices where available or to the State Houses of Assembly to submit a formal petition against the tariff hike.

Similarly, a separate letter sent to NLC’s affiliate unions urged them to rally their members for the demonstration.

“At this time of massive hardship, your unwavering support and action are critical to defending ourselves and the nation from policies that emasculate us for the benefit of corporate fat cats,” the letter emphasized.

The NLC has vowed to resist what it describes as oppressive economic policies, calling on all Nigerians to join the protest and send a clear message to the government.