Calling the recent 50% increase in telecommunications charges an unjust burden on Nigerians already facing financial difficulties, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has vehemently opposed the move.
According to a statement released by NLC President Joe Ajaero, the union denounced the hike that was authorized by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), calling it a callous action that will make living expenses worse for millions of people. Nigerians should brace for a widespread boycott of telecommunications services or maybe nationwide protests, the labor union said, if the ruling is not overturned.
For ordinary Nigerians and workers alike, the cost of life is already intolerable. It is not only unjust, but also unacceptable to raise communication rates at this time, said Ajaero. Emphasizing that communication is a need, not a luxury, he called on the government to put the interests of its constituents ahead of corporate profits.
The NLC has set a date for the mass protest, being February 4th and has urged the National Assembly, the NCC, and the government to reevaluate the tariff increase and look for other solutions to the problems facing the telecom industry. Millions of people who depend on inexpensive communication, as well as businesses and students, will be negatively impacted by rising tariffs, the union maintains.
Civil society organizations and labor groups have started to organize against the price increase, and calls for government action are becoming louder. The NLC may proceed with its plans for service boycotts or protests if the government does not react.
