The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has voiced strong discontent over the recent increase in telecom service charges, arguing that it contradicts a prior consensus with the Federal Government and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The union has demanded an immediate rollback, warning of severe repercussions if ignored.
Telecom providers, however, are resisting the pressure, asserting that the union’s threats could amount to a serious legal offense.
Two weeks ago, the Federal Government and the NLC met to negotiate a reduction in the proposed 50% increase. A special 10-member committee, split evenly between both sides, was formed to deliberate for two weeks before any decision would be finalized.
As this deadline approaches, some telecom firms have already enforced a 50% hike in data charges.
According to the NLC, “If telecom providers fail to restore previous tariffs by the end of February 2025, we will enforce a nationwide shutdown of telecom services starting March 1, 2025.”
In a show of defiance, the NLC announced an initial measure against the price hike: starting today, February 13, 2025, workers and other citizens are urged to boycott MTN, Airtel, and Glo services daily from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM until the end of February.
During a Central Working Committee (CWC) session held in Lokoja, Kogi State, on Tuesday, NLC officials instructed state branches and affiliated unions to immediately begin awareness campaigns and mobilization efforts.
Union’s Stand
The official communique, signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emma Ugboaja, emphasized:
“The CWC convened in Lokoja on February 11, 2025, to discuss key national matters, including the 50% telecom tariff surge, proposed tax reform policies, and the introduction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses for the North Central region.”
Concerns Raised:
The telecom industry’s decision to impose the tariff hike despite ongoing discussions was labeled a “betrayal of trust” and a “disrespect to the negotiation process.”
The move was condemned as “an act of corporate dominance, enabled by weak regulatory oversight.”
The NLC criticized the government’s perceived favoritism toward big corporations over the general public.
Union’s Directives:
Immediate Reversal – Telecom companies must revert to previous pricing structures until the ongoing discussions conclude.
Daily Boycott – From February 13 onward, workers and citizens are urged to stop using MTN, Airtel, and Glo services between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM daily.
Halt Data Purchases – Consumers should refrain from buying data bundles from these telecom providers.
Financial Accountability – NLC demands that telecom firms return any funds moved out of the country due to the price surge.
March 1 Deadline – If telecom firms fail to comply by the end of February, a full shutdown of their operations will begin nationwide.
NLC state branches and industrial affiliates have been instructed to begin mass mobilization efforts. Additionally, all workers and citizens are encouraged to observe “electronic silence” during the designated boycott hours.
The NLC called on civil society groups and the public to join the movement against what it described as an exploitative pricing model.
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