HomeFeaturesNLC Condemns 50% Telecoms Rate Increase, Plans Mass Boycott

NLC Condemns 50% Telecoms Rate Increase, Plans Mass Boycott

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In the wake of the Federal Government’s approval of a 50% increase in telecom tariffs, the Nigeria Labour Congress has mobilized Nigerians to prepare for a nationwide boycott of telecommunication services. The move is a direct response to what the NLC deems an unjustified increase that will further strain the financial lives of everyday citizens.

Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, spoke out on Wednesday, condemning the government’s decision to increase telecom tariffs. He referred to the hike as an unjustifiable strain on a population already grappling with severe economic hardship.

The labour union raised alarms over the timing of the tariff increase, noting that it comes at a time when inflation is soaring and purchasing power is steadily declining. NLC President Joe Ajaero emphasized that telecommunication services have evolved into a basic necessity, with the average Nigerian worker now spending around 10% of their income on telecom expenses.

He said, “The Nigeria Labour Congress expresses its unequivocal condemnation of the Federal Government’s recent approval, through the Nigerian Communications Commission, of a 50% increase in telecommunication tariffs.

“This decision, coming at a time when Nigerian workers and the masses are grappling with unprecedented economic hardship, is a clear assault on their welfare and an abandonment of the people to corporate fat cats.

“Telecommunication services are essential for daily communication, work, and access to information. Yet, an average Nigerian worker already spends approximately 10% of their wages on telecom charges.

“For a worker earning the current minimum wage of ₦70,000, this means an increase from ₦7,000 to a staggering ₦10,500 per month or 15% of his salary — a cost that is unsustainable.”

Read also: Telecoms Price Hike: Stock Market Sees Uptick As MTN Shines

Joe Ajaero expressed his disapproval of the government’s handling of the telecom tariff hike, which was fast-tracked within a month, while the implementation of the revised minimum wage has been delayed for almost a year, highlighting the disparity in the government’s approach to both issues.

He also argued that this disparity underscores the government’s bias towards corporate interests over the welfare of its citizens.

Ajaero said, “This hike exemplifies the government’s apparent ease in prioritising corporate profits over citizens’ welfare.

“We must ask: When will the government stand for the people it swore to protect? When will the National Assembly rise to its responsibility and hold the executive accountable for policies that blatantly undermine the welfare of the majority? When will the common man heave a sigh of relief in Nigeria?”

The NLC president, however, urged Nigerians to reject the tariff hike and prepare for collective action, including the possibility of a mass boycott of telecommunication services, to compel a reversal of the increase.

“NLC is not opposed to a tariff review but disagrees with the approved rate of increase. “We therefore call on the government, the NCC and the National Assembly to stop the implementation of this ill-advised hike to allow a reasonable conversation around it.

The Eastern Updates 

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