In a last-minute effort to prevent the nationwide protest planned by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its civil society allies, the Federal Government has summoned labour leaders to a crucial meeting today.
The protest, scheduled for Tuesday, February 4, 2025, is in response to the government’s approval of a 50 per cent increase in telecommunications tariffs, which the NLC has strongly opposed.
Labour leaders have also raised concerns over the N8 billion budget allocation for electricity bill sensitization, describing it as wasteful and unnecessary.
A source from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) confirmed that the meeting, set for 5 pm, will serve as a platform for dialogue on key national issues affecting Nigerian workers.
The discussion will be an inter-ministerial engagement led by the SGF, with a primary focus on addressing the grievances raised by the NLC.
Despite the government’s intervention, the NLC remains firm in its stance, with sources indicating that while its leaders will attend the meeting, they are unlikely to back down on their opposition to the tariff hike.
In preparation for the protest, the NLC had earlier issued directives to its affiliate unions and state councils to mobilize workers and Nigerians for a mass demonstration.
A letter from NLC General Secretary, Emma Ugboaja, urged unions to rally members across the country, emphasizing that the protest is necessary to resist policies that impose further hardship on workers and citizens.
The planned demonstration will take place in state capitals and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), beginning at 7 am Protesters are expected to march to offices of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) or, where unavailable, to state Houses of Assembly to present their demands.
