Joe Ajaero, president of the NLC, expressed concerns over rising electricity tariffs and taxes, calling them unbearable for workers. His remarks follow ongoing negotiations over a telecom tariff hike. A two-week delay in protests was agreed upon, with a committee set to review the tariff hike and propose solutions.
Joe Ajaero, the President of the National Labour Congress (NLC), has raised concerns over the unbearable electricity tariffs and tax burden on Nigerian workers. Speaking after a meeting with government officials, Ajaero criticized the government's tax policies, describing them as a significant challenge for the workforce. He stressed the negative impact of both rising electricity prices and taxes on workers' livelihoods, calling for urgent reforms.
His comments come amid an ongoing dispute regarding a 50% hike in telecom tariffs approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on January 20. The NLC had initially planned nationwide protests on February 4 in response to the tariff increase, citing inflation and the growing cost of living. However, after meeting with government representatives, the NLC agreed to delay the protests for two weeks.
A committee consisting of members from both the government and labor unions will review the telecom tariff hike and suggest solutions to address the concerns of both telecom operators and consumers. The committee's findings are expected within the next two weeks.
Ajaero emphasized that labor leaders were not consulted before the tariff increase was approved, adding that the government and NLC have agreed to continue discussions rather than resorting to confrontation. The NLC leader reiterated the need for meaningful dialogue to resolve these critical issues affecting Nigerian workers.
