Nationwide protests over a recent 50% increase in telecom tariffs have been put on hold following high-level discussions with government officials. The suspension comes after a meeting held at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation on Monday night, where representatives from both sides sought to address concerns over the tariff hike.
At the meeting, labor leader Joe Ajaero announced that an expanded committee would be formed to review the entire tariff structure. The committee, comprising five representatives from the government and five from the union, is expected to submit its findings within two weeks. “We emphasized that as Africa’s largest labor organization, our inclusion is essential for any meaningful stakeholder consultation,” Ajaero stated.
The decision to pause the protest—originally scheduled to include the symbolic submission of protest letters—comes as part of ongoing negotiations aimed at reaching a fair and comprehensive agreement. Ajaero added that the union’s future actions, which may include further protests, boycotts, or even service withdrawals, will depend on the committee’s recommendations.
More Read
While the focus has shifted to the telecom tariff issue, Ajaero also reiterated concerns about other economic challenges, including high electricity tariffs and an onerous tax regime affecting workers nationwide. “These unresolved issues are a burden on workers and must be urgently addressed,” he said.
The pause in the protest signals a willingness on both sides to engage in dialogue, while leaving the door open for further action should the outcome of the committee prove unsatisfactory.
