The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly opposed the recent 50% tariff increase by telecommunications companies, calling for an immediate reversal to prevent widespread economic hardship. Despite agreements with the Federal Government and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), telecom firms proceeded with the hike, leading the NLC to issue a March 1 deadline for a total shutdown of their operations if the decision is not reversed.
In response, the NLC has directed workers and citizens to take action against the tariff hike by boycotting MTN, AIRTEL, and GLO services daily from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, starting February 13 until the end of the month. Additionally, it has urged Nigerians to suspend data purchases from these companies and mobilize public resistance through NLC state councils and affiliate unions.
In a communique signed by President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emma Ugboaja, the Congress accused telecom firms of disregarding due process and betraying public trust by implementing the hike before an agreed-upon review was completed. The NLC also criticized the government for failing to protect consumers from corporate exploitation.
Beyond telecom tariffs, the NLC reviewed the Tax Reform Bills, warning against policies that could worsen financial burdens on Nigerian workers. While supporting fiscal reforms, the Congress vowed to advocate for fair and worker-friendly tax policies.
If the tariff increase remains by February 29, the NLC will begin a nationwide telecom shutdown from March 1. The Congress has called on civil society groups and the public to join in resisting exploitative economic policies.
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