From Adana Nnamani, Abuja
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly condemned the Federal Government’s recent approval of a 50% increase in telecommunication tariffs, as announced by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
The NLC described the decision as an attack on the welfare of Nigerian workers and citizens already struggling with severe economic challenges.
In a statement signed by its President, Joe Ajaero, on Wednesday, the NLC said the move would further burden workers who already allocate around 10% of their wages to telecom expenses.
The Congress urged Nigerian workers and citizens to reject the hike and prepare for collective action, including a possible nationwide boycott of telecommunication services.
“The NLC calls on all Nigerian workers and masses to reject this unjustifiable tariff hike. We urge citizens to prepare for collective action, including the possibility of a nationwide boycott of telecommunication services, to compel the reversal of this punitive increase. This is for our dignity, our rights, and our survival as a people.
The Nigeria Labour Congress remains resolute in defending the interests of Nigerian workers and the masses. We will not allow the people to bear the brunt of policies that further entrench poverty and inequality. Together, we will do our best to resist this injustice and demand that the government prioritises the interests of its citizens over corporate interests,” the statement read in parts.