- NLC opposes 50% telecom tariff hike, urges boycott preparations.
- Telecoms defend increase for sector sustainability and service upgrades.
- FCCPC mandates transparency, urges service improvements over price hikes.
In a statement on Wednesday, NLC President Joe Ajaero criticized the tariff hike, describing it as a grave injustice to Nigerians already struggling with economic hardship.
Ajaero noted that telecommunication services are now a basic necessity, with the average worker spending about 10% of their income on telecom charges.
For those earning the N70,000 minimum wage, the hike increases monthly telecom expenses from N7,000 to N10,500, he stated, calling the cost unsustainable.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that he also slammed the government for approving the tariff increase within a month while taking nearly a year to implement the revised minimum wage. Ajaero accused the government of prioritizing corporate profits over citizens’ welfare, asking when policymakers would focus on the needs of the common man.
The NLC has demanded the immediate suspension of the tariff hike and called for a dialogue to ensure any adjustments are fair and reasonable. Ajaero emphasized that Nigerians must reject the increase and warned of possible nationwide protests and boycotts if the government and telecom companies fail to act.
Meanwhile, telecom operators defended the increase, citing the need for long-term sector sustainability and improved services. The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission acknowledged these concerns but urged operators to prioritize tangible service improvements.
The commission also announced stricter transparency rules for telecom operators, requiring them to disclose plan costs, validity periods, and benefits to protect consumer interests.
