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The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has reached an agreement with the federal government to temporarily suspend its planned nationwide protest against the 50 percent increase in telecommunications tariffs.
Following a meeting on Monday with government representatives, NLC leadership, led Joe Ajaero, president of the congress, agreed to delay the protest for two weeks.
As part of the agreement, a 10-member committee, consisting of five members from each side, has been established to review the tariff hike report and propose solutions that address the concerns of both telecom operators and consumers.
The committee is expected to submit its findings within two weeks.
NLC had announced plans to go on nationwide protests on February 4 after the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a 50 percent increase in telecom tariffs, citing rising operational costs and inflation.
Speaking with journalists after the meeting, the NLC president lamented that the labour was not consulted before the tariff hike was agreed upon by the NCC.
“We emphasised to them that the NLC is the largest organisation in the whole of Africa, and there is no consultation of stakeholders that does not include us that will stand,” Ajaero said.
“It was on that premise that they agreed to have a larger committee to look at the entire tariff structure and model to come up with a realistic and all-inclusive agreement.
“So, the committee will be made up of five, five from both sides, and expected to come up with a result after two weeks that will determine the next line of action and the process of engagement.
“The symbolic action of submitting the letters tomorrow will be put on hold until the outcome of such a committee.
“The outcome of such committee is what will determine our next line of action in terms of protest, in terms of boycott, in terms of even withdrawal of services, which are the three issues put online.
“But I want to use this particular meeting to put in our displeasure on the electricity tariff and the tax that is killing the workers now the tax regime, which is unbearable.
“So those are actions that are still on course, you know, until they are addressed. So that’s the summary of the meeting.”
Mohammed Idris, minister of information and national orientation, said there would be no protest on February 4.
“Well, as you can see, we have been engaging with members of Nigeria Labour Congress, the leadership, the president, secretary, and other members of the executive council of the NLC,” the minister said.
“We have met here under the chairmanship of the secretary government of the federation. We have the minister of finance and the coordinating minister of the economy, the minister of budget, the minister of communication, minister of labour and myself, and, of course, the executive vice chairman of the NCC.
“We have deliberated at length. The crux of the matter is that there is already a study that was conducted by the NCC that led them to arrive at this 50 percent increase.
“Now, we are discussing this with labour and labour has agreed that they will look at that study, and then a small committee has been set up to look at that study once again and come up with a final resolution for the consideration of government and labour in about two weeks’ time.
“So, the summary of it is that labour and the Nigerians Labour Congress specifically, and the delegation of the federal government, have set up a committee of five each.
“We’re going to meet here continuously for the next two weeks, and at the end of the second week, we will now come up with a recommendation that will give to government and the organised labour for final consideration.
“Now, I think what has happened here has effectively taken out that position (protests). Both of us have agreed. And in fact, it is an attempt to put a stop to that (protests) that led us to make this meeting to happen today.
“So this meeting has happened both the organized labour, the NLC, particularly the government People have sat down here and have agreed on this position so there won’t be any protest tomorrow by Nigerian Labour Congress, and there will be some form of report that will come up in about two weeks from now to consider the study and other considerations by both parties
The federal executive council (FEC) has approved an allocation of N4.5 billion for the procurement of HIV treatment packs to supportNigerians living with HIV/AIDS.
The approval by FEC comes after the US government granted an emergency humanitarian waiver, reversing a previous funding pause on HIV treatment in developing countries—including Nigeria.
The pause was initially ordered under an executive directive by President Donald Trump as part of a broader review of foreign aid.
Nigeria has been heavily reliant on international assistance for HIV initiatives, particularly from the US president’s emergency plan for AIDS relief (PEPFAR).
The federal government’s approved budget will facilitate the procurement of 150,000 treatment packs over four months.
This initiative aims to provide immediate relief and demonstrate Nigeria’s intent to build a more sustainable domestic financing model for health interventions.
Speaking on the approval on Monday after the FEC meeting, Ali Pate, minister of health and social welfare, said it underscores Nigeria’s commitment to ensuring continuous access to life-saving treatment for individuals affected by the virus.
“This allocation is critical for ensuring that those living with HIV continue to receive necessary treatments without interruption,” Pate said.
The minister said the FEC also set up a committee with membership drawn from the ministries of finance, budget, defence, environment and the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) to come up with a sustainability plan.
“This is about ensuring that no Nigerian loses access to treatment during this period of adjustment,” he said.
Speaking on the recent US policy changes, Pate said while Nigeria appreciates the contributions of the American government over the last 20 years, it is now focused on transforming its health sector, using national systems and domestic financing.
Pate announced that the FEC has also approved the HOPE (human capital opportunities for prosperity and equity) programme, a $1 billion initiative aimed at enhancing governance and strengthening primary healthcare systems across the country.
“This programme is very much in line with the direction of this administration—to focus on investing in the human capital of Nigerians. People are at the centre of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” the minister said.
He added that the funding, developed in collaboration with the International Development Association (IDA), allocates $500 million for governance improvements and another $500 million to enhance primary healthcare.
The minister noted that the governance component will incentivise states to recruit and train teachers and healthcare workers, while the healthcare portion will expand primary healthcare services, improve quality, and boost resilience
Ehi Braimah, the publisher and editor-in-chief of Naija Times, has been named a finalist for the 2025 StudyUK Alumni Awards, a prestigious international recognition by the British Council.
The award, now in its 11th edition, honours outstanding UK university alumni worldwide and celebrates professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders across four categories: business and innovation, culture and creativity, science and sustainability, and social action.
In a statement by Toby Odo, the editor of Naija Times, Braimah, an alumnus of the University of Roehampton, was nominated in the culture and creativity award category.
“This recognition follows Braimah’s recent Chancellor’s Alumni Award from the University of Roehampton, London,” the statement reads.
“He was among three Nigerians and 20 recipients globally honoured for Alumni Innovation and Inspiration, further cementing his reputation as a top PR expert and marketing strategist.”
Last year, the Naija Times publisher was honoured with the Chancellor’s Alumni Award at the University of Roehampton in London.
Braimah was recognised alongside two Nigerians, Humphrey Aghoghovbia Jr. and Marian Adejokun, at the event held on October 22, 2024, at the university campus.
He was honoured with the Alumni Innovation and Inspiration award for his contributions to evidence-based reporting in Nigeria.
The institution praised Braimah for “promoting balanced journalism” through the Naija Times, particularly during the 2023 presidential election, and for advocating for societal reforms.
[TheCable]
The presidency has dismissed the recent gathering of opposition figures and dissenting voices within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), asserting that the President remains “undistracted and unperturbed” despite emerging political tensions.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) early on Sunday, Dare reacted to what he described as a politically motivated assembly of Tinubu’s opponents, including some former allies within the APC, who criticized the President’s leadership amid growing economic and political challenges in Nigeria.
“While President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria was away in faraway Dar es Salaam, capital of Tanzania, his political opponents, detractors, opposition elements, and pseudo-friends unfolded their Machiavellian inclinations,” Dare wrote, referring to the President’s recent official trip focused on addressing Nigeria’s energy issues.
The gathering, which featured prominent opposition figures and APC members now at odds with Tinubu’s administration, was described by Dare as a meeting fueled by “ill-will,” with participants “heating up the polity” and promoting undemocratic sentiments.
“Expectedly, it was a gathering convened to further spread ill-will. Nothing new came out of the gathering different from the opposition script we are used to,” he stated, adding that some individuals “went overboard in their vitriol, fanning the embers for adopting undemocratic actions.”
Despite what he called the “early combat” initiated by Tinubu’s critics, Dare emphasized that the President remains focused on governance rather than political distractions.
“The clouds are beginning to clear. The stage sets soon. The combat begins. Until then, President Tinubu, an avowed democrat, remains undistracted and unperturbed. The fight is ahead. Not now,” he declared.
According to Dare, Tinubu’s sole priority at this time is addressing Nigeria’s pressing economic challenges and improving the lives of its citizens.
“The only conversation he wants to have now is how to improve the lives of Nigerian citizens and constructive discourse on building a resilient economy,” he noted.
In a direct message to those eyeing the 2027 elections, Dare advised political aspirants to wait for the appropriate time to test their popularity at the polls, stressing that President Tinubu remains committed to leadership, not electioneering.
“This is 2025. Not 2027. Let those who want to test their popularity with Nigerians wait for the next election. President Tinubu is fully focused on providing the leadership that will transform our country,” Dare concluded.
The political landscape has grown increasingly tense in recent weeks, with rising dissent within the APC and growing criticism from opposition parties over the administration’s handling of the economy, security, and governance.
Apart from former vice President Atiku Abubakar, a PDP chieftain, former governors Nasir el-Rufai (Kaduna) and Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers), were some prominent Nigerians who criticised President Tinubu at a National Conference on Strengthening Democracy in Nigeria, in Abuja.
In a separate post, Dare put Nigerians on notice on the implications of the ongoing tariff war between the United States of America and Canada.
He warned that that the fallout will reverberate around the world.
“Nigeria must pay close attention to the Tariff War between USA and Canada and of course a number of North Atlantic Countries. There will be fall outs that will reverberate around the world.
“The WTO will be instrumental in helping to manage the impacts of this seeming new world order.
There is a lesson in all to these for us as a country. We are witnessing a new movement: America First. Canada First. It’s time for Nigeria First! Let’s put Nigeria first -no matter,” the Presidential spokesperson wrote
[PRESS RELEASE ] Tinubu sticks to 'snatch and grab' agenda with no plans to strengthen Nigeria's democracy - Atiku
Admin![[PRESS RELEASE ] Tinubu sticks to 'snatch and grab' agenda with no plans to strengthen Nigeria's democracy - Atiku](/media/k2/items/cache/9cf62192b9f01f86c4cb1b22b7d1a6eb_M.jpg)
Late in the evening of Saturday, 2 February, the Special Adviser on Public Communication and one of President Tinubu’s Spokespersons, Mr. Sunday Dare posted two comments on his verified X handle.
The first post made a case for countries to tighten their belts on the heels of the announcement from President Trump’s administration to impose tariffs in line with his America First agenda, and the other post which came much later the same night tried to discredit the actions of political leaders in strengthening democracy and good governance in Nigeria.
The second post is a lame attempt to impugn the credibility of political leaders who seek a better direction for Nigeria, and, in so doing, Dare painted a picture of what is to be expected in how the Tinubu administration plans to take the next election in the country as “a combat and a fight” or better still the deepening of their notorious "snatch and grab" agenda.
It therefore becomes pertinent to tell the Tinubu administration that last week's gathering of political leaders across the country is aimed at fostering the ethos of democracy in Nigeria; making sure that elections in Nigeria are credible and that democracy is the vehicle for progress and social justice in the country.
We find it curious that the Tinubu government would react to these noble ideals as “Machiavellian inclinations.”
If the Tinubu administration could describe opposition in a democracy in the language of the era of Dark Ages, we find such behaviour as unbecoming and a stark attack on the collective impression of our hard-won democracy and the fundamental human rights that it guarantees.
The other post by Dare speaks to the “Tariff War” – by which the Tinubu administration seeks to interpret President Trump’s America First approach to international trade.
First of all, we condemn the careless remarks by the Spokesperson of President Tinubu on an issue that potentially affects Nigeria’s relations with the U.S. and other countries, including partner institutions in international trade.
That aside, it is a contradiction in terms that the Tinubu administration, which came into power on the philosophy of self-right to rule, will mock Nigerians on matters of patriotism.
We urge the Tinubu administration to practice what it preaches by embracing the Nigeria First ideals in replacement to the self-entitled and other primordial sentiments it panders to.
Nigeria has gone through all kinds of class, ethnic and religious divisions since the advent of the Tinubu administration.
This is the first government in the history of Nigeria that will put Nigerians on Band A or Band C on the cadre of access to social infrastructure.
We therefore urge the Tinubu government to unite and heal the nation and desist from making careless remarks about other countries or the patriotism of the Nigerian people.
Signed:
Paul Ibe
Atiku Media Office
Abuja
[PRESS RELEASE] Obidient Movement Stands for Truth and Justice Rejecting Governor Bisi Akande’s False Allegations
Admin![[PRESS RELEASE] Obidient Movement Stands for Truth and Justice Rejecting Governor Bisi Akande’s False Allegations](/media/k2/items/cache/792cfe902ad26743d307be68e368a8a8_M.jpg)
The Obidient Movement outrightly rejects the baseless and revisionist claim by former Governor Bisi Akande that our movement was behind the historic EndSARS protests, allegedly orchestrated to stop Bola Ahmed Tinubu from becoming President. This false narrative is not only an insult to the memory of the young Nigerians who lost their lives in the fight against police brutality but also a desperate attempt to rewrite history and shift blame for the government's failures.
EndSARS was a decentralized, youth-led movement demanding an end to police brutality, extrajudicial killings, and systemic oppression in Nigeria. It was not about politics, nor was it about any single individual’s presidential ambition. Nigerians, especially young people, took to the streets in 2020 because they were tired of injustice, unchecked police violence, and a government that refused to listen to its people.
To suggest that the Obidient Movement a movement that emerged years later as a symbol of hope, accountability, and good governance was responsible for EndSARS is not only false but also a deliberate attempt to discredit our cause. We are a movement of patriotic Nigerians united by the desire for a better country, not agents of chaos as Akande and his allies would like to paint us.
Rather than engaging in revisionist propaganda, we urge Akande and his associates to focus on addressing the real issues facing Nigerians today economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, and bad governance. The people are suffering, and no amount of misinformation or historical distortion will change that reality.
We stand firm in our mission to restore integrity, transparency, and good governance in Nigeria. No amount of false accusations will deter us from advocating for a better future for our nation.
Signed,
Dr Tanko Yunusa
National Coordinator, Obidient Movement
![[PRESS RELEASE] DISCLAIMER: Obidient Movement Joins ADC](/media/k2/items/cache/8124917db3c1afdba7c11a6dfbf70dd5_S.jpg)
The attention of the Leadership of the OBIDIENT MOVEMENT has been drawn to a media publication recently in circulation suggesting that the obidient movement has joined the Action Democratic Party (ADC)
For the purpose of clarity the obidient movement has not joined or associated it's self with any other political party or any coalition as at today.
From the video in circulation we only saw members from the Coalition of the protection of democracy (COPDEM) in a meeting with the National Leadership of ADC.
Please be informed that COPDEM is an organization which also serve as one of the support group and as such is not the obidient movement neither does it have any authority to negotiate with any political party on behalf of the obidient movement.
We want to reassure the general public that the obidient movement is dedicated and is working tirelessly with critical stakeholders and people of like minds who are desirous of seeing a new Nigeria through our principal his Excellency Mr Peter obi
We therefore consider all this propaganda as an attempt to undermine and derail the activities of the obidient movement which is solidly behind HE Mr Peter Obi.
Hon Chidiebere Darlington Anyanwu CHYDON
Personal Assistant on Media & publicity to Dr Tanko Yunusa the national coordinator obidient movement .
Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced a reduction in the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, from N950 to N890, effective from Saturday.
This price adjustment is said to be in response to favourable developments in the global energy sector and a significant decline in international crude oil prices. Dangote Refinery said its decision to crash the price reflects its commitment to aligning with market realities and ensuring that consumers benefit from changes in international crude oil prices.
Dangote refinery, in a statement issued by the Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer, Anthony Chiejina, explained that this latest move follows a similar decision made on 19th January, when a modest price increase was implemented due to rising crude oil costs. However, with recent global market trends indicating a decline, Dangote Refinery added that adjusting its pricing structure was a bold move to drive economic relief for Nigerians.
The statement also noted that the price reduction would significantly lower the cost of petrol across the country, generating a positive ripple effect throughout the broader economy.
“Dangote Petroleum Refinery firmly believes that this reduction from N950 to N890 will result in a meaningful decrease in the cost of petrol nationwide, thereby driving down the prices of goods and services, as well as the overall cost of living, with a positive ripple effect on various sectors of the economy,” the statement said.
The refinery has also called on marketers across the country to ensure that the benefits of the reduced price are passed on to the Nigerian public while reiterating its support for the economic revival spearheaded by President Bola Tinubu, whose administration is focused on making Nigeria self-sufficient in refined petroleum products and positioning the country as a leading oil export hub.
“This collective initiative will contribute to the wider economic recovery plan led by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is dedicated to making Nigeria self-sufficient in refined petroleum products and positioning the country as a leading oil export hub¸” it noted.
It stressed that Dangote Petroleum Refinery would continue to introduce innovative strategies aimed at safeguarding the interests of Nigeria and its citizens.
Dangote Petroleum Refinery’s decision is expected to play a vital role in stabilising the country’s economy, ensuring that the benefits of lower fuel prices are felt across all sectors
The leadership of the telecommunications sector union has urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to reconsider its planned protest against the federal government-approved 50 percent increase in telecom service tariffs.
In a letter addressed to the NLC president and the National Administrative Council, the union’s general secretary, Comrade Okonu Abdullahi, argued that the tariff hike was necessary to prevent the sector’s collapse amid rising operational costs.
The union expressed concern over the NLC’s decision to mobilise workers for a nationwide demonstration on February 7, 2025, without consulting stakeholders in the telecom industry.
According to the letter, the sector has been struggling with skyrocketing expenses due to the removal of fuel subsidies, increased electricity tariffs, and the naira’s depreciation.
The letter highlighted that the cost of Automated Gas Oil (AGO) used to power telecom base stations surged from N842.25 to N1,441.28 since May 2023, while petrol prices for engineers maintaining these sites rose from N198 to over N1,030.
Additionally, the fluctuating foreign exchange rate, with the naira dropping from N460 to N1,700 per dollar, has made it increasingly difficult for telecom operators to import essential equipment.
Abdullahi warned that without the tariff adjustment, telecom companies might be forced to implement service cuts, leading to job losses and disruptions in critical sectors such as finance and security. He also noted that workers in the telecom industry have not benefited from wage increases like their counterparts in other sectors due to the financial strain on employers.
The union urged the NLC leadership to rescind the protest directive, emphasising that the tariff increase is the only viable solution to sustaining the sector. “If the sector collapses, other industries will suffer,” the letter warned, adding that continued resistance to the price adjustment could lead to mass layoffs and unreliable network services.
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The Police Service Commission (PSC) has ordered the immediate retirement of officers above 60 and those who have served for more than 35 years.
PSC reached the decision after its extraordinary meeting.
“The Police Service Commission rose from its first extraordinary Meeting with the approval for the immediate retirement of senior Police Officers who have spent more than 35 years in service and those above 60 years of age,” the PSC spokesman Ikechukwu Ani said in a statement on Friday.
The PSC said it reversed a 2017 decision that approved that “Force Entrants should have their date of appointment in the Force against the date of their enlistment”.
“The Commission has passionately revisited its decision and has come to the conclusion that the said decision in its intent and purpose contradicted the principle of the merger of service in the Public service and it is in violation of Public Service Rule No 020908 ( i & ii) which provides for retirement on the attainment of 35 years in service or 60 years of age,” the statement read.
“Accordingly, the Commission at its 1st extraordinary meeting of the 6th Management Board held today, Friday, 31st January 2025, approved the immediate retirement of those officers who have spent more than 35 years in service and those above 60 years of age.”
Ikechukwu said the decision has been communicated to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun for implementation.
Egbetokun’s Tenure Controversy
The move comes amid calls for the retirement of the IGP owing to his tenure elongation.
President Bola Tinubu appointed Egbetokun as the IGP in June 2023. He replaced Usman Baba. The National Police Council in October 2023 confirmed him as the substantive police chief.
Section 7 of the Police Act 2020 stipulates that anyone appointed as IGP shall stay in office for four years, Egbetokun who was born on September 4, 1964, was expected to retire last September when he clocked 60.
Also, Section 18 (8) of the Police Act 2020 referenced the civil service rule on retirement. It partly read that “every police officer shall, on recruitment or appointment, serve in the Nigeria Police Force for a period of 35 years or until he attains the age of 60 years, whichever is earlier”.
In July 2024, however, the National Assembly passed a bill allowing Egbetokun to stay in office “until the end of the term stipulated in his appointment letter”.
Despite calls for the IGP’s retirement, the Federal Government on Thursday backed Egbetokun’s continued stay. It argued that it was legal.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar was notably absent as key leaders of the North East zonal caucus of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, met in Bauchi to discuss reconciliation efforts and strategise for the party’s future, particularly the 2027 elections.
The meeting, held on Thursday, was attended by the three PDP governors from the region: Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, Taraba State Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas, and Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.
Also in attendance were the PDP Reconciliation Committee, led by former National Secretary Olagunsoye Oyinlola, senators, House of Representatives members, and state assembly members from the zone.
While other prominent party members who could not attend the event sent representatives, Atiku did not.
The meeting deliberated on key issues, particularly the upcoming PDP Zonal and National Conventions, and focused on resolving internal conflicts to strengthen the party as the main opposition.
Speaking at the meeting, PDP’s acting national chairman, Ambassador Umar Ilya Damagun, urged party leaders to set aside their differences and focus on unity.
He emphasised that individual interests could only be achieved if the party remained strong and united.
“Interest is paramount. We are all in politics for various reasons, but the most important thing is that you can only achieve your goals when your political vehicle is strong enough to take you to your destination,” Damagun said.
He reassured members that the party is greater than any individual, stating, “PDP is a Trojan horse – a tested and trusted party with experienced politicians who have seen it all. We have the capacity to weather any storm.”
Damagun also made it clear that his leadership would not serve the personal agenda of any individual, saying, “Nobody is above the party. We will support and acknowledge our members, but if you go against the party’s interests, we will part ways with you.”
In his remarks, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who is also chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, called for reconciliation within the party.
He proposed a swap of party positions across different states as a way of fostering unity.
“Positions in Gombe will be moved to Bauchi, those in Borno will be shifted to Yobe, and Adamawa’s positions will be reassigned to Taraba, and vice versa,” he suggested.
He assured members that PDP leaders in the region – including himself, the National Chairman from Yobe, Senator Hassan Dankwambo from Gombe, and Muhammad Imam from Borno – would work to minimise conflicts and reintegrate former members.
The leader of the Reconciliatory Committee, Oyinlola, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to resolving internal conflicts and strengthening its position ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He said the committee’s objective is to rebuild a formidable PDP that can effectively challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.
“Our mission is to reach out to aggrieved members and mend broken relationships within the party. We believe that if all members set aside their differences, PDP can reclaim power in 2027,” he stated.
Also speaking, Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri described the committee’s intervention as timely, given the internal crises within the party.
He stressed that PDP can only regain its leadership position through collective efforts, urging all aggrieved members to embrace reconciliation.
Governor Fintiri assured the committee of the governors’ support in achieving their reconciliation objectives and strengthening the party.
Opposition to the planned 50 per cent
telecommunication tariffs hike has thickened with the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, yesterday, informing its affiliate unions and state councils to ensure total mobilization of workers and allies ahead of the February 4, nationwide mass protest against the planned tariffs hike.
Meanwhile, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, has notified the Nigeria Communications Commission, NCC, of its pending suit challenging the government’s decision to approve an increase in telecommunications tariff by 50 per cent.
'We aren't just a band of blind musicians; we have journalists, teachers and computer...0:00 / 1:00
This came as the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI, said the hike will place additional burdens on low-income earners, noting, however, that it will offer necessary relief to operators.
But the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Related Institutions, NASU, umbrella body for pro-workers civil society organisation, Joint Action Front, JAF, and the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, yesterday, called on Nigerians to join the February 4, planned protest, urging Nigerians to fully participate in any other action aimed at resisting the planned tariff hike.
However, NCC said it will engage NLC, SERAP, National Association of Telecom Subscribers in Nigeria, NATCOMS, and NATCOMS, to explain the reasons for the price adjustment.
NLC writes affiliates, state councils
The NLC, in separate letters dated January 30, to affiliate unions and state councils, through its General Secretary, Emma Ugboaja, urged them to also mobilise other Nigerians to send a serious message to the government.
The letter reads: “In response to a resolution of the meeting of the National Administrative Council, NAC, to resist the proposed 50 per cent hike in the tariff of telecommunication services and all other forms of policies that afflict Nigerian workers and masses, all state councils of NLC are directed to begin immediate mobilisation of members of their councils in their respective states for a one-day peaceful protest rally.
“The rally shall take place in various state capitals and FCT on February 4, 2025, by 7a.m. You are expected to co-ordinate all affiliates in your states and work with volunteering civil society partners resident in your state for effective rally.
“The rally procession should lead to any NCC office in the state, where not available, to the state House of Assembly where our petition will be presented. Further developments shall be made available.
“At this time of massive hardship, your unwavering support and determination is critical to defending ourselves and nation from policies that emasculate us for the benefit of corporate fat cats.”
Similarly, the letter to affiliate unions reads “In response to the decision of the NAC, resolution to resist the proposed hike in the tariff of telecommunication services and all forms of policies that afflict Nigerian workers and masses; all industrial unions affiliated to NLC are requested to begin immediate mobilisation of their members across the nation for a one-day peaceful protest rally.
“The rally shall take place in various state capitals across the nation and Abuja on February 4, 2025, by 7a.m.
“At this time of massive hardship, your unwavering support and action is critical to defending ourselves and nation from Policies that emasculate us for the benefit of corporate fat cats.”
SERAP writes NCC over pending suit against tariff hike
In a letter yesterday, SERAP, through the law firm of Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa & Co, cautioned the commission on the need to desist from taking any action that would be prejudicial to the suit before the court.
The letter reads: “We are solicitors to SERAP, the plaintiff in the above mentioned civil action, hereinafter referred to as our client, on whose behalf write to bring to your notice the pendency of the above-mentioned case an subsisting application for interlocutory orders for injunction therein.
“We have been reliably informed by our client that on or about January 20, 2025, the NCC, approved a 50 per cent increase in telecommunications tariffs, this approval is to lead to an in-in call rates from N11 to N16 per minute, data prices from N287.30 to 31.25 per GB, and SMS costs from N4 to N6.
“Given the increase comes at a time of economic hardship, further burdening Nigerians, many of whom struggle with poverty, unemployment, and high inflation, the hike will restrict access to telecommunications services, limiting the ability of citizens, including SERAP, to express themselves and share information, which is a fundamental human right.
“Our client equally informed us that the move has been met with public outcry and labour unions threatening nationwide action if the increase is not reversed.
“Being dissatisfied with the violation of its constitutional and vested right and further attempts to carry out activities to the detriment of our client’s interest and rights, take notice that the above-mentioned matter has been instituted at the Federal High Court, Abuja, seeking, inter alia, for a declaration that the tariff increase is unlawful and should be set aside with an order restraining the NCC and telecommunication companies from enforcing the tariff hike.
“Our client is, therefore, seeking judicial intervention and determination of the legality of all actions and decisions in relation to the increase and planned implementation of the telecommunication tariffs.”
NATCOMS had on Wednesday, also threatened court action over the planned tariff hike.
It’s additional burden on masses —LCCI
Director-General of LCCI, Dr. Chinyere Almona, said: “While this hike may offer relief for the operators, it risks placing additional strain on consumers, particularly those in lower-income brackets. Another factor of consideration by most stakeholders is that Nigerian citizens and businesses deserve better services from the operators and more robust regulation from the government.
“In our quest for a one trillion-dollar economy, we need more investments in critical infrastructure to drive the much-needed digital revolution for growth and development. A robust digital infrastructure will support innovation across all sectors of the Nigerian economy.
“Looking beyond the hike, the operators and regulators need to settle down into delivering quality services to drive operational cost efficiency for businesses and support the automation of government services.”
Full blown strike should follow protest — NASU
Lending support to the NLC proposed protest, General Secretary of NASU, Prince Peters Adeyemi, said: “The planned protest by the NLC is extremely important and a welcome development. The so-called telecommunication tariffs will add to the burden of Nigerian workers. It is not only exploitative but an act of wickedness.
“Why do they need such increase at this time? Are they running at a loss? I think the Federal Government should stop them. We are paying too many charges already. If you know how much the banks are removing from our money under different guises, you will be amazed.
“So, the NLC planned protests makes a lot of sense to us. It should go beyond protest. It should be followed by a full-blown strike action.”
We are ready for protest, other actions — JAF
Similarly, JAF’s Secretary, Abiodun Aremu, said: “JAF stands with the NLC in all protests that will advance the collective interest of the working class and the oppressed poor in our country.
“JAF will not only call on Nigerian workers to stand resolute in mobilising for a successful action but will join the NLC to encourage the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, TUC, and other pro-workers platforms to join forced with the NLC.
“Equally to state that for JÀF, since its strategic relationship with the NLC since 2003, and its alliance with the NLC and TUC in LASCO (Labour and Civil Society Coalition), JAF will at no time decline any invitation from the NLC to join any protests anchored on working-class interests and the yearnings of Nigerians.
“We will as a tradition and with our full commitment play an active role in the protests and hereby urges all our allies and other constituencies of the oppressed masse, nationwide to harken to the call for action.”
HURIWA calls for mass resistance
National Coordinator of HURIWA, Emmanuel Onwubiko, said: “This government is increasingly proving to be one designed to serve the interests of big business and profiteers rather than the ordinary Nigerian. It is a government for corporate organisations, controlled by ministers who were allegedly hand-picked by billionaires to advance their business empires.
“Nigerians must realise that this fight is not just for NLC alone, it is a fight for every citizen being crushed by reckless economic policies.
“The NCC is supposed to be a regulatory body, but it has become a shield for telecom companies. There is no accountability in the way telecom firms deduct data, over-charge for services, or fail to deliver quality connectivity. Nigerians are being defrauded daily, and rather than stepping in to enforce consumer rights, the NCC is working to legalize their exploitation by approving this insensitive tariff hike.
“If Nigeria claims to be a capitalist economy, then telecom operators should negotiate their pricing directly with their customers based on quality of service. Government should not be imposing price hikes in a supposed free market. This move by the NCC is more akin to communism, where the state dictates economic outcomes, but in this case, it is for the benefit of private corporations at the expense of the masses.
“This is a deliberate attempt to stifle free speech and economic self-reliance among young Nigerians. Many unemployed youths create and post content online as a source of income. By making internet access unaffordable, the government is ensuring that only the wealthy and the elite have the power to communicate and engage in digital opportunities.
“The protest must be seen as a collective struggle for economic justice. Nigerians should not remain passive while their rights are being trampled upon.
“HURIWA will fully participate in this protest, and we call on all citizens to rise up and demand their rights. Those who have also gone to court to challenge this tariff hike have taken the right step, and we hope the courts will not disappoint Nigerians by siding with corporate greed,” he added.
It must not be one of struggle — MSA
In the same vein, the Movement for Socialist Alternative, MSA, through its General Secretary, Dagga Tolar, said: “We welcome the action and encourage all workers to come out in full support of the action.
“We also call on the NLC to not see this as a one-off action but to go ahead to put a committee in place for an action plan of mobilisation of all social forces of the working masses, including all pro-labour and civil society groups, informal workers groups, student and youth groups across the federation, so as to commence a coordinated action of struggle against all of the anti-people policies of the Tinubu regime
“Now is the time to act, to organise the working masses to go on a rescue mission and save the country from this rapacious gangs of the ruling class that puts the interest of capital both foreign and national above the wellbeing of the ordinary citizens of the country.”
NCC to engage NLC, SERAP, NATCOMS to explain reasons for price adjustment
On its part, the NCC yesterday said it would do everything possible to engage everybody or group peeved with the recent price adjustment, in order to explain why it was necessary.
The commission was responding to the threat by NLC to stage a nationwide protest on February 4, 2025.
A top NCC official said the commission had neither received any letter from the NLC nor NATCOMS seeking clarifications or reasons for the adjustment, even though it was working seriously towards engaging and explaining reasons to everybody or group that was not comfortable with the price adjustment.
The official said: “Most of the protests against the price adjustment, including court actions and threats of it are basically out of ignorance. Most people do not understand the grave implications of what they are calling for. If they would give the commission the listening ears, they would understand we acted to save the sector and the entire economy.
“When the Nigerian Association of Nigerian Students, NANS wrote us, we invited them for a meeting and by the time we explained the processes and procedures, including the grave implications if we didn’t do what we did, they clearly understood.
“I believe every other group that would allow dialogue will also see reasons. We are going to engage everybody, even those who are said to have gone to court already. To safeguard the economy should be more important to all than pandering to sentiments,” he added.
Recall that NLC had Wednesday after an emergency NAC, meeting among others, urged willing civil society allies to join the planned February 4 protest and called on Nigerian workers, the informal sector, and the general public to stand in solidarity against this unjust policy.
A communiqué by NLC’s President, Joe Ajaero, at the end of the NAC meeting, informed that the meeting was convened 2025, to deliberate on pressing national issues, including the recent approval of a 50 per cent increase in telecommunications tariffs by the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC.
Recall also that NLC had on January 22, rallied rejected the 50 percent telecommunication tariffs hike approved by the federal government through the NCC.
According to NLC, the 50 per cent tariff hike approval, “at a time when Nigerian workers and the masses are grappling with unprecedented economic hardship, is a clear assault on their welfare and an abandonment of the people to corporate fat cats.”