The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has warned the federal government against any planned increase in electricity tariffs, threatening mass protests if the hike is implemented.
The warning was issued in a communiqué released at the end of the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Yola, Adamawa State. The NLC also cautioned telecommunications companies against failing to implement the agreed 35% tariff hike, as opposed to the previously proposed 50% increase by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
The NLC condemned the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s (NERC) ongoing reclassification of electricity consumers, describing it as a scheme to push consumers into higher tariff categories under the guise of improved service delivery.
According to the communiqué signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emma Ugboaja, the move constitutes 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 union accused the government of prioritizing corporate interests over the well-being of citizens, noting that despite rising inflation and stagnant wages, authorities continue to shift financial burdens onto Nigerians through increased taxation and tariff hikes.
The NLC warned that any further increase in electricity tariffs would be met with a nationwide mass protest.
The NLC also addressed the February 21, 2025, agreement with the federal government, which reduced the proposed telecommunications tariff hike from 50% to 35%. The union warned that if the agreement is not implemented by March 1, 2025, its National Administrative Council (NAC) would take action to enforce compliance.
On political matters, the NEC expressed concern over the internal crisis within the Labour Party and its alleged lack of transparency. It directed the NAC to explore rebranding, mergers, or coalitions to reclaim the party and restore it to its ideological foundation.
“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 union reaffirmed its determination to resist economic exploitation and urged workers and allies to remain prepared for mass action against what it described as anti-people policies.
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