NLC warns FG against further electricity tariff hike, threatens mass protest

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has warned the federal government to halt any planned increase in electricity tariffs, vowing to lead mass resistance if such a move is implemented.

In a communiqué issued at the end of its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Yola, Adamawa State, the NLC also threatened to shut down telecommunications companies if they fail to implement the agreed 35% tariff hike, as opposed to the previously approved 50% increase by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

Rejection of Electricity Tariff Reclassification

The NLC condemned the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s (NERC) ongoing reclassification of electricity consumers, which it claims is an attempt to migrate consumers from lower tariff bands to Band A under the pretext of service improvement.

According to the communiqué signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emma Ugboaja, this move amounts to economic exploitation of Nigerians.

“NEC unequivocally rejects the ongoing sham reclassification of electricity consumers by NERC. This systematic exploitation, sanctioned by the Ministry of Power, is nothing short of economic violence against the working class and broader Nigerian populace,” the statement read.

The NLC accused the ruling class of prioritizing the interests of global monopoly capital over the well-being of Nigerians, stating that despite rising inflation and stagnant wages, the government continues to shift its financial burden onto citizens through increased taxation and tariff hikes.

The union warned that any attempt to further increase electricity tariffs would trigger a nationwide protest.

Telecom Tariff Increase and Labour Party Crisis

The NLC also addressed the February 21, 2025, agreement with the federal government, which reduced the proposed telecommunications tariff hike from 50% to 35%. It warned that if the agreement is not implemented by March 1, 2025, the NLC’s National Administrative Council (NAC) would take action to enforce compliance.

Regarding the Labour Party, the NEC expressed concern over the party’s internal crisis and lack of transparency. It directed the NAC to explore rebranding, mergers, or coalitions to reclaim the party and return it to its ideological roots.

“The NLC remains committed to ensuring that the Labour Party remains a true vehicle for the emancipation of Nigerian workers and the oppressed masses,” the communiqué stated.

The NLC reaffirmed its resolve to resist all forms of economic exploitation and urged workers and allies to remain prepared for mass action against anti-people policies.