Labour Calls for Reversal of Electricity Tariff Hike as Protests Commence Today

Labour unions, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), are gearing up for nationwide protests against the recent electricity tariff hike and the removal of subsidy from the power sector. The protests are slated to kick off today and will target the headquarters of the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and the Ministry of Power, as well as state offices of power distribution companies across all 36 states.

The agitation stems from the NERC’s announcement of an electricity tariff hike for Band A customers, which translates to a 240 per cent increase in tariff rates. This hike, aimed at customers constituting about 15 per cent of the total power consumers in the country, sparked widespread discontent among consumers and labour unions.

In response to mounting pressure, the House of Representatives, civil society groups, and other stakeholders demanded the reversal of the tariff hike, citing its adverse effects on consumers and the economy. Despite this, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, defended the tariff increase, warning of a nationwide blackout if it was not implemented.

However, labour unions remained steadfast in their demand for a reversal of the tariff hike to pre-subsidy levels. The ultimatum issued by the unions expired yesterday, prompting them to mobilize for nationwide protests.

In a bid to address the growing discontent, the NERC recently announced a downward review of the tariff, attributing it to the appreciation of the naira in the foreign exchange market. The revision, which represents an approximately 8.1 per cent reduction in tariff rates, aims to assuage public anger and alleviate the burden on consumers.

Labour unions, civil society groups, and other stakeholders have thrown their weight behind the protests, emphasizing the need for government intervention to address the concerns raised by consumers. They argue that the tariff hike, coupled with the prevailing economic challenges, has exacerbated the hardship faced by Nigerians and undermined efforts to stimulate economic growth and development.

As protests loom, stakeholders are hopeful that the government will heed their demands and take concrete steps to mitigate the impact of the electricity tariff hike on consumers and the economy.

Source: PUNCH NG