The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on telecommunication companies to reverse the recent tariff hike until a committee set up by the Federal Government completes its deliberations.
In a statement issued after its Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting in Lokoja, Kogi State, the Congress announced that, starting Thursday, February 13, 2025, Nigerian workers and citizens are to boycott the services of MTN, AIRTEL, and GLO daily between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, continuing through the end of February 2025.
The communique, signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja, also called for an immediate suspension of data purchases from these companies, citing them as major tools of exploitation. The Congress is demanding the telecommunications companies revert to their previous tariffs until the committee’s work is concluded.
The statement reads: “CWC demands an immediate reversal of the tariff hike, which took effect today, and insists that the companies revert to the previous tariff until the committee completes its deliberations and reaches a conclusive agreement.”
The NLC also threatened further action: “If the telecommunications companies fail to reverse the hike by the end of February 2025, a total shutdown of their operations nationwide will commence from March 1, 2025.”
In addition to the boycott, the NLC has instructed its affiliates to begin immediate sensitization and mobilization of members and the public. It urged all unions to ensure the electronic silence is observed during the designated hours and called on civil society organizations and other stakeholders to support the action.
On the topic of tax reforms, the NLC expressed concern over the ongoing Tax Reform Bills under government consideration. While acknowledging the need for fiscal reforms, the Congress emphasized that any tax policies must alleviate the burden on Nigerian workers, rather than exacerbate the economic hardship they already face. The NLC vowed to engage with relevant authorities to ensure that tax reforms are fair, equitable, and worker-friendly.
The Congress reiterated its commitment to defending the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers and citizens, urging all Nigerians to unite in the fight against exploitative economic policies and to participate in the planned actions for fairness in telecommunications, taxation, and transportation policies.
