In the face of the Federal Government’s unwavering stance on a 240 per cent electricity tariff increase for band ‘A’ consumers, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stark warning, hinting at a looming confrontation over the contentious decision.
The tariff hike, impacting approximately 1.9 million consumers, has ignited widespread outrage across various sectors, with organised labor and manufacturers leading the charge against what they deem a “wicked and unpopular” move.
Benson Upah, Head of Information at NLC, minced no words, stating, “We did say earlier that this tariff hike is insensitive and unpopular. So if the government elects to continue with the hike or persists in something that is evil, I’m sure it is equally prepared for the consequences of that evil.”
These sentiments underscore the mounting frustration among Nigerians, who are grappling with the economic fallout of the tariff hike amidst already challenging circumstances.
In response, Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, defended the government’s position, citing the unsustainable nature of power subsidies and the need for a transition to a full cost-reflective tariff within three years.
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However, the NLC remains resolute, signaling its readiness to challenge the government head-on over the tariff hike. This sets the stage for a potential showdown reminiscent of past confrontations over contentious policies.
Meanwhile, reports of billing discrepancies by electricity distribution companies have further fueled public anger. The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company Plc, in particular, applied the new rate to all consumer bands under its franchise areas, contrary to directives, prompting swift action from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), which imposed a hefty fine on the company.
