The opposition against the planned 50% increase in telecom tariffs is growing, with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) leading the charge. The NLC has directed its affiliate unions and state councils to fully mobilize workers and allies for a nationwide protest set for February 4.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has also taken legal action, notifying the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) about its pending lawsuit against the tariff hike. Meanwhile, the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has warned that the increase will burden low-income earners, even though it may provide some relief for telecom operators.
Other organizations, including the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU), Joint Action Front (JAF), and the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), have called on Nigerians to participate in the protest and resist the tariff hike.
In a letter dated January 30, NLC General Secretary Emma Ugboaja instructed all state councils and affiliated unions to begin mobilization for a one-day peaceful rally on February 4. The protest will take place in state capitals and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), starting at 7 a.m., with demonstrators marching to NCC offices or state Houses of Assembly to present their petitions.
The NLC emphasized that at a time of economic hardship, resisting the tariff hike is crucial to protecting Nigerian workers and citizens from exploitative policies.
SERAP, through its legal team, has warned the NCC against implementing the tariff increase while the case is in court. The organization argues that the price hike, which raises call rates from N11 to N16 per minute and data costs from N287.30 to N431.25 per GB, will further burden Nigerians already struggling with high inflation, poverty, and unemployment. The group is seeking a court order to halt the increase, calling it unlawful.
The National Association of Telecom Subscribers (NATCOMS) has also threatened legal action against the planned hike.
LCCI Director-General, Dr. Chinyere Almona, acknowledged that while the hike might benefit telecom operators, it would place additional strain on consumers, especially low-income earners. She urged the government to focus on improving telecom services and investing in digital infrastructure rather than increasing costs for consumers.