The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to embark on a nationwide protest on February 4, 2025, in response to the 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs recently approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
The NCC’s decision, which was granted on January 20, 2025, has drawn widespread criticism, with the NLC describing it as a “clear assault” on Nigerian workers and the general public, who are already grappling with economic hardship.
Joe Ajaero, President of the NLC, condemned the federal government’s approval of the tariff hike, calling for an immediate suspension of the decision. He warned that the protest would serve as a strong message to the government about the dangers of imposing such an unjustifiable increase on struggling Nigerians.
“This decision is insensitive, unjustifiable, and a direct assault on Nigerian workers and the general populace, who are already burdened by worsening economic hardship foisted on them by policies of government which was no fault of theirs,” the NLC said in a statement on Wednesday.
The labour body also directed all its affiliates and state councils to begin full mobilisation ahead of the planned protest. It further called on civil society organisations and concerned citizens to join in resisting the policy.
“The Nigeria Labour Congress remains committed to protecting the interests of Nigerian workers and citizens against exploitative economic policies.
“We will not relent in our struggle against policies that undermine the welfare and dignity of our people.
“Nigerian workers and citizens must unite and take action to prevent further economic oppression. We must resist any policy that prioritises corporate profits over the well-being of the people.”
