From Victor Osula, Abuja
The recent 50% hike in telecommunication tariffs, approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission has sparked widespread condemnation from organised labour, the Coalition of Northern Groups and other stakeholders.
The Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress have described the tariff increase as insensitive and burdensome, urging Nigerians to reject the move and prepare for collective action.
In a statement on Wednesday, NLC President, Joe Ajaero, said the decision was an “assault on the welfare of Nigerians” already grappling with harsh economic realities.
He hinted at a possible mass boycott of telecom services to force a reversal of the hike.
“This decision, coming at a time when Nigerian workers and the masses are facing unprecedented economic hardship, is a clear abandonment of the people to corporate profiteers,” Ajaero said.
He added, “Telecommunication services are essential, yet an average Nigerian worker spends about 10% of their salary on telecom charges. With the current minimum wage of N70,000, this increase would mean spending 15% of earnings on telecom services—a cost that is unsustainable.”
Similarly, TUC Deputy President, Tommy Okon, described the hike as outrageous and insensitive, warning that it would worsen the economic burden on Nigerians.
Okon said, “This hike is unhealthy for workers and the common man. Data services are among the few affordable means of relaxation for Nigerians. Increasing the tariff beyond subscribers’ capacity to pay will lead to a boycott and potentially collapse the telecom industry.”
The Coalition of Northern Groups also criticised the tariff hike, describing it as “an assault on the dignity and livelihoods of Nigerians.”
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Jamilu Charanchi, the group accused the NCC of colluding with telecom operators to exploit Nigerians.
“The CNG unequivocally rejects this 50% hike. At a time when Nigerians are battling hyperinflation, unemployment, and economic mismanagement, this decision is both insensitive and indefensible,” Charanchi said.
Meanwhile, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has demanded improved service quality from telecom operators in light of the tariff adjustment.
In a statement on Wednesday, the FCCPC said, “Consumers have raised concerns about network congestion, dropped calls, inconsistent internet speeds, and unusual data depletion. It is crucial that this tariff adjustment translates into tangible service improvements for consumers.”
The NCC’s announcement has continued to generate outrage, with many Nigerians questioning the rationale behind such a steep increase during a period of widespread economic hardship.
