The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), once a formidable force in advocating for workers' rights, is now facing intense scrutiny.

Many Nigerians believe that the once-powerful NLC, which commanded immense respect in the days of iconic leaders like Pa Michael Imoudu, Alhaji Hassan Sunmonu, Alhaji Ali Ciroma, and Adams Oshiomhole, has lost its relevance. The congress, once a fierce defender of the middle class, now struggles to assert itself in shaping national policies.

A Legacy of Strength, Now a Shadow of Its Former Self

Before Joe Ajaero assumed office as NLC National President, the congress was a reliable voice against government policies that trampled on workers' welfare. However, in recent years, the NLC has failed to respond decisively to economic hardships, allowing the government to make unilateral decisions with little resistance.

Since the beginning of the current administration in May 2023, the NLC has been accused of making political compromises, leaving Nigerian workers vulnerable to harsh policies.

Fuel Subsidy Removal: A Turning Point in NLC's Decline

The first major sign of the NLC's weakening influence emerged after President Bola Tinubu scrapped the fuel subsidy on May 29, 2023. Following the announcement, the union declared a nationwide strike to force the government to reverse its decision. However, just 24 hours before the proposed industrial action, the NLC suspended the strike after a meeting with government officials.

Although the government promised to introduce palliatives such as Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to mitigate the impact of subsidy removal, these promises remain largely unfulfilled. Meanwhile, the cost of living has continued to skyrocket, with little intervention from the NLC.

Electricity Tariff Hike: Empty Threats and No Action

In July 2024, electricity distribution companies (DisCos) announced an increase in electricity tariffs, sparking widespread outrage. NLC President Joe Ajaero condemned the move, calling it an act of "impunity and arrogance." However, after a brief one-day protest, the NLC backed down, citing assurances from the National Assembly that the issue would be addressed.

Despite these promises, the tariff hike was implemented, and the NLC remained silent, further eroding its credibility.

Telecom Tariff Increase: Another Lost Battle

In January 2025, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a 50% increase in telecom tariffs. Once again, the NLC strongly opposed the move, vowing to shut down the economy if the government did not reverse its decision. However, after a meeting with government officials on February 4, 2025, the union called off its planned protest without securing a rollback of the tariff hike.

DStv & GOtv Subscription Hikes: NLC's Silence Speaks Volumes

Multichoice Nigeria’s repeated hikes in DStv and GOtv subscription fees have also exposed the NLC's ineffectiveness. Despite initially vowing to resist the price increase, the labour union failed to take any concrete action, allowing the company to proceed unchallenged. The most recent price hike was met with total silence from the NLC, further fueling criticism of the union’s leadership.

Public Outrage: Nigerians React to NLC's Fading Power

Nigerians have expressed deep disappointment over the NLC’s inability to stand up for workers’ rights.

Joseph Ojobo, an On-Air Personality, said: “The NLC of today is nothing like it used to be. In 2012, when Goodluck Jonathan removed the fuel subsidy, labour shut down the country. Now, despite extreme hardship, the NLC is only good at issuing statements with no action.”

Socio-political activist Adebanjo Idowu Mathew believes a leadership overhaul is necessary: “The NLC made a mistake by endorsing a political candidate in 2023. How can you hold a government accountable when you helped bring it to power? The leadership needs to go for real change to happen.”

Civil servant Mrs. Anthonia Adikwu accused the union leaders of living in luxury while workers suffer: “They drive exotic cars, travel abroad for medical checkups, and enjoy privileges while the masses struggle. They are no different from corrupt politicians.”

Can the NLC Regain Its Lost Glory?

As Nigeria faces growing economic hardship, many workers are left wondering if the NLC can ever reclaim its lost influence. Without decisive action, the congress risks becoming completely irrelevant in the fight for workers' rights.

For now, Nigerians continue to endure harsh policies without a strong labour union to defend them. Will the NLC rise again, or has it permanently lost its power? Only time will tell.