Get ready for a showdown! The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) is gearing up for a massive nationwide rally on February 4th, and it’s all because of a jaw-dropping 50% hike in telecom tariffs. This isn’t just about phone bills; it’s a fight against policies that are squeezing the average Nigerian. Here’s what you need to know:
- Mass Rally Alert: NLC declares nationwide protest on Feb 4th.
- Why? A shocking 50% hike in telecom tariffs is the trigger.
- Who’s Impacted? Everyone, especially those earning the minimum wage of N70,000.
- What’s Next? Possible nationwide boycott of telecom services if demands aren’t met.
The 50% Hike: A Punch in the Gut
The Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) has slapped a 50% increase on telecom services, and the NLC is not having it. NLC President, Mr. Joe Ajaero, made it clear: this tariff hike is “too harsh” for the citizens. Imagine trying to make ends meet with the current economic crunch, and then boom! Your phone bill suddenly jumps by half. It’s like being asked to pay more for water when you’re already thirsty.
NLC’s Fight Back: Mass Rally Incoming!
The NLC isn’t one to back down. They’ve called for a nationwide mass rally on Tuesday, February 4th, to voice their anger and show the government that Nigerians have had enough. This rally is not just a walk in the park; it’s a warning shot to the powers that be. The message is clear: “We’re not taking this lying down.” The NLC has directed all its affiliates and state councils to mobilize, and they’re also calling on civil society allies to join in.
More Than Just Telecom Tariffs
This isn’t just about the 50% tariff hike; it’s about the bigger picture. Nigerians have been hit hard with hikes in petrol prices, soaring food costs, and increased electricity tariffs. The NLC rightly points out that imposing such an unfair increase on a population already struggling with a minimum wage of just N70,000 is simply unacceptable. The question is, how much can the average Nigerian take?
What’s At Stake?
The NLC is demanding an immediate suspension of the 50% tariff hike and wants the government and NCC to sit down for a meaningful dialogue with stakeholders. And they aren’t kidding. If these demands are ignored, the NLC has hinted at escalating its actions to a nationwide boycott of telecom services. This could be a major disruption for the country, proving how serious the NLC is about protecting the interests of Nigerian workers and citizens.
A Call to Solidarity
The NLC is calling on all Nigerian workers, the informal sector, and the general public to stand together against what they call an “unjust policy”. They’re saying it loud and clear: they will not relent in their struggle against policies that undermine the welfare and dignity of Nigerians. This isn’t just a union issue; it’s a people’s issue, and the NLC is leading the charge.
The stage is set for February 4th. Will the government listen? Or will the NLC make good on its threat of a nationwide boycott? Time will tell, but one thing is for sure: this is a fight that will impact every Nigerian.
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