The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on Sunday reaffirmed its commitment to the nationwide protest scheduled for Tuesday, February 4, 2025.
The protest is against the 50 per cent tariff increase approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
It is expected to take place across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The NLC had previously threatened to boycott telecommunication services, describing the tariff hike as an “assault on workers’ welfare” and “an abandonment of the people to corporate fat cats.”
NLC President Joe Ajaero underscored the economic burden the hike would impose on Nigerians, stressing that telecommunications are essential for communication, work, and access to information.
Confirming the planned industrial action just 48 hours before its commencement, a senior official of the National Administrative Council (NAC) of the NLC told THE WHISTLER that despite calls for cancellation, the Congress remains resolute in its decision.
“We have had people and organizations calling for a cancellation of the rally. This rally is peaceful, with no intent of destruction or disruption of public order.”
Following the NLC’s announcement, an opposing group, the Nigeria Citizen Watch for Good Governance (NCWGG), questioned the merit of the protest and declared its opposition to the planned demonstration.
When asked whether the Congress had been pressured to call off the protest, an official told THE WHISTLER that if the 50 per cent tariff increase was negotiated in good faith, the rally also represents an expression of good faith.
“If the government can take decisions without properly considering all sectors, especially Nigerian workers, we have the right to say no and express our grievances.
“We are not advocating destruction but a functional society where the poor are not exploited to enrich those who have placed themselves above power.
“Again, there will be a rally, and we will not be intimidated.”
Regarding the Trade Union Congress (TUC)’s participation in the protest, the source clarified that the decision for the rally was made solely by the NLC’s NAC and did not include its sister Congress.
However, the official emphasized the solidarity between the two labor unions, saying, “An injury to one is an injury to all.”
“When we decided on a rally, it was not a joint meeting with the TUC. Although we are sister unions, we support each other because we know that an injury to one is an injury to all.
“But if they decide to join, they are welcome,” the source said.
