In a last-minute effort to prevent a nationwide protest, the Federal Government has summoned the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its civil society allies to a crucial meeting scheduled for 5 p.m. today.
The emergency meeting, coordinated by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), will focus on the controversial 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs, a move that has sparked widespread resistance from the NLC. It is expected to be an inter-ministerial discussion, with top government officials leading negotiations.
Aside from the telecom tariff hike, the meeting will also address the NLC’s strong opposition to the ₦8 billion budgetary allocation for electricity bill sensitization, which the union has criticized as "wasteful and corrupt."
According to sources within the SGF’s office, the meeting was scheduled for 5 p.m. to accommodate other government engagements, including the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting.
Despite agreeing to attend the talks, labour leaders have maintained a firm stance, declaring that there is “no way” they will accept the tariff increase.
Meanwhile, the NLC has intensified mobilization efforts ahead of tomorrow’s protest, urging workers and the public to take a stand against what it calls “anti-people policies.”
In a letter dated January 30, NLC General Secretary Emma Ugboaja directed all affiliate unions and state councils to ensure full participation in the one-day mass demonstration, which will kick off at 7:00 a.m. in state capitals and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Protesters will march to National Communications Commission (NCC) offices and State Houses of Assembly, where they will submit petitions rejecting the tariff hike.
Labour leaders remain resolute, insisting that regardless of the meeting’s outcome, the protest will go on.
"At a time of massive hardship, your unwavering support and action are critical to defending ourselves and our nation from policies that emasculate us for the benefit of corporate fat cats,"the NLC stated.