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Rejects tollgates on ‘dilapidated roads’, 50% hike in telecom tariffs, threatens nationwide action over hardship
The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has kicked against some policies by the federal government, saying they are worsening economic hardship for Nigerian workers and the masses.
In a communique issued after the NUC National Administrative Council meeting in Abuja on Thursday – today, February 6 – the Congress called on the government to reverse the devaluation of the Naira, stating that it is the root of the recent inflation.
TUC in the document which was signed by its National President, Festus Osifo, and Secretary General, Nuhu Toro, also condemned the federal government’s plan to introduce toll gates on dilapidated federal roads, describing it as an “insult to Nigerians.”
While acknowledging that tolling can generate revenue for road maintenance, the TUC insisted that tolls should only be considered after the roads have been properly rehabilitated.
Similarly, the Congress criticized the proposed 65% hike in electricity tariffs, calling it “ill-timed” and an act of “economic oppression” against already struggling Nigerians.
The union noted that despite previous tariff increases, the promised improvements in electricity supply, especially for “Band A” consumers, have not materialized.
More also, TUC rejected the planned 50% increase in telecom tariffs, siding with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in condemning the move.
The union argued that such an increment would further strain the finances of Nigerian citizens without addressing the underlying economic issues.
The Congress warned that it would mobilize Nigerian workers, civil society groups, and the general public for nationwide protests if the government proceeds with policies that worsen economic hardship.
“The Congress, therefore, demands that all roads earmarked for tolling must first be fixed, properly tarred, and repaired to international standards before any discussion on tolling can be entertained.
Similarly, the NAC, on behalf of the Congress, strongly condemns the proposed 65% increase in electricity tariffs. It is alarming that the government is considering this hike when the previous increment has already inflicted severe hardship on citizens. This proposed increase is not only ill-timed but also a deliberate act of economic oppression against Nigerians, who are already struggling under unbearable economic conditions.
“Furthermore, the improved service quality promised during the last tariff hike, particularly for consumers under the so-called “Band A” category, has not been realized. Most consumers, regardless of their tariff band, continue to live in perpetual darkness.
Planned 50% Increase in Telecom Tariffs
“The NAC also examined the planned 50% increase in telecom tariffs and fully endorsed the position of our sister labor center, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NIC), in rejecting this move. The decision to increase tariffs was made without proper consideration of its economic impact on the masses. There must be meaningful engagement to explore alternatives and ensure that any policy adjustments are fair, sustainable, and do not further burden already struggling citizens.
The Need for Consultation with Critical Stakeholders Before
“We have observed that the government has been very reluctant and international in not engaging Organised Labour before policies are implemented.
Effective policy making requires inclusive consultation with critical stakeholders before implementation, especially when policies impact the general public. Engaging labor unions, civil society organizations, industry experts, and community representatives ensures that policies are well-informed, balanced, and widely accepted.
“Failure to consult often leads to resistance, unintended consequences, and potential crises. Inclusive dialogue fosters transparency, trust, and collective ownership, making policies more effective and sustainable. The government must prioritize stakeholder engagement to uphold democratic principles and promote policies that truly serve the people’s interests.
“We therefore call on the government to prioritize stakeholder engagement and uphold democratic principles that promote policies which truly serve the people’s interests.
“The NAC, on behalf of the Congress, strongly advises the government to refrain from introducing policies that would further exacerbate the current economic hardship faced by hardworking Nigerians. If the administration insists on implementing these policies, the TUC will have no choice but to mobilize the working class, civil society, and the oppressed masses for a nationwide action. This level of exploitation is unacceptable,” it added.
