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The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly criticized the Federal Government for implementing harsh economic policies influenced by international financial institutions. The labor union argues that the removal of subsidies and rising tariffs are worsening economic hardship for Nigerians.
NLC Rejects 50% Telecom Tariff Increase
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Thursday, NLC spokesperson Benson Upah condemned the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for approving a 50% increase in telecom tariffs.
He described the hike as excessive and unsustainable, proposing instead a moderate 5% increase to ease the financial strain on citizens.
Nationwide Protest Set for February 4, 2025
Reaffirming NLC’s opposition, Upah announced a nationwide protest scheduled for Tuesday, February 4, 2025, to demand the reversal of the telecom price hike and other government policies negatively impacting Nigerians.
“This rally is to halt this mindless tariff increase,” Upah stated.
“If there has to be an increase at all, 5% is more reasonable given the economic hardship. But 50%? That is unacceptable.”
Economic Hardship Worsening for Nigerians
Upah further questioned the impact of multiple tariff hikes, warning that rising energy costs, taxes, and communication expenses are pushing Nigerians, manufacturers, and the middle class to the breaking point.
“Where will ordinary Nigerians be when we have constant energy tariff increases?” he asked.
“Manufacturers are struggling, the middle class is shrinking, and ordinary Nigerians can barely afford basic utilities. When taxes are too high, fewer people can pay.”
The NLC maintains that these policies are crippling the economy, making it difficult for businesses to survive and worsening poverty levels across the country.
With mounting public pressure, the Federal Government may have to reconsider its stance on the telecom tariff hike and other contentious economic policies.