NLC President Ajaero Slams High Electricity Tariffs And Taxes: ‘They’re Crushing Workers

Speaking to the press after a meeting with government officials on Monday, Ajaero criticized the current tax policies, emphasizing that they are putting excessive strain on workers.

“This meeting is an opportunity to express our displeasure with the electricity tariff and the tax burden that is currently suffocating workers. The tax regime is simply unbearable, and these issues remain unresolved as we continue to press for action,” Ajaero remarked.

His comments come amid ongoing negotiations between labor leaders and the federal government over the recent 50% increase in telecom tariffs.

On January 20, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a hike in telecom tariffs, prompting the NLC to call for a nationwide protest set for February 4. However, after talks with the government, labor leaders agreed to delay the protest by two weeks.

As part of the resolution, a 10-member committee—five representatives from the government and five from the NLC—has been established to review the telecom tariff increase and propose practical solutions, with a report expected in two weeks.

Ajaero also expressed frustration over the lack of consultation with labor prior to the NCC’s tariff hike decision.

Meanwhile, Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, confirmed that both parties had decided to prioritize dialogue over confrontation, with the planned protest officially suspended.