The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning to the Federal Government, declaring its unwavering opposition to any further increase in electricity tariffs. Hobnob News has obtained details of the NLC’s resolute stance, which includes a threat of mass protests and potential shutdowns of telecommunications companies.
Following its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Yola, Adamawa State, the NLC released a communique rejecting the ongoing reclassification of electricity consumers by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
The NLC views the reclassification, which aims to move consumers from lower bands to Band A under the guise of service improvement, as “unjustified extortion.”
“NEC unequivocally rejects the ongoing sham reclassification of electricity consumers by the NERC which seeks to forcibly migrate consumers from lower bands to Band A under the guise of service improvement,” the communique stated. “This systematic exploitation, sanctioned by the ministry of power, is nothing short of economic violence against the working class and broader Nigerian populace.”
The NLC accuses the “ruling elite” of deepening the misery of Nigerians through “incessant tariff hikes, increased taxation, and relentless economic strangulation.” They argue that while inflation soars and wages stagnate, the government continues to shift the burden of its “fiscal irresponsibility” onto the people.
“NEC-in-session warns that any attempt to announce further electricity tariff increases will be met with mass resistance,” the communique declared. “Consequently, the Congress resolves to immediately mobilize for a nationwide protest should the ministry of power and NERC proceed with their exploitative plan to further hike electricity tariffs under any guise.”
In addition to their stance on electricity tariffs, the NLC addressed the recent agreement on telecommunications tariffs. While acknowledging the reduction from 50% to 35%, they remain vigilant and have threatened to shut down telecom operations if the agreement is not implemented as planned on March 1, 2025.
The NLC also addressed the state of the Labour Party (LP), expressing concern over its “opaqueness” and the influence of “reactionary forces.” The NEC has directed the National Administrative Council (NAC) to take steps to reclaim the party, including potential rebranding, mergers, or coalitions.
“Congress will not allow Labour Party to be hijacked by reactionary forces who do not represent the aspirations of the working people and broader Nigerian people,” the communique stated.
The NLC has reaffirmed its commitment to resisting “all forms of exploitation and oppression” and has called on its affiliates and allies to remain “on high alert” for potential mass action against “anti-people policies.” They emphasized the need for a “fair and equitable Nigeria” where the “dominance of fat cats at the expense of the masses will be greatly reduced.” Hobnob News will continue to monitor this developing situation.
