The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has put its affiliates on high alert for a potential nationwide protest over the recent increase in telecommunications tariffs and the planned electricity band migration. The decision was made during the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Yola, Adamawa State.
The move follows the NLC’s skepticism about the government’s commitment to implementing an agreement reached on February 21, 2025, through a Joint 10-Man Committee. While the government had initially proposed a 50% hike in telecommunications tariffs, negotiations brought it down to 35%. However, the labour union has warned that it will not hesitate to take action if the agreement is not honored.
In addition to telecom tariff concerns, the NLC has condemned the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s (NERC) plan to reclassify electricity consumers under the pretext of service improvement. The congress accuses NERC of attempting to unjustly increase electricity costs by migrating consumers from lower bands to the higher-priced Band A.
NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja described the move as “economic violence,” accusing both NERC and the Ministry of Power of exploiting already struggling Nigerians.
In a communique, the NEC issued a stern warning:
“Should the implementation of the agreement on March 1, 2025, not proceed as agreed, the National Administrative Council (NAC) is mandated to immediately deploy all necessary instruments to enforce compliance in line with the February 10, 2025, Central Working Committee (CWC) directive.”
The congress also firmly rejected what it termed the “sham” reclassification of electricity consumers, describing it as a deceptive ploy to impose higher tariffs under the guise of service improvement. Declaring its resolve to resist all forms of exploitation, the NLC called on all affiliates, industrial unions, and progressive allies to remain vigilant and ready to mobilize for mass action against anti-people policies.
