By Darasimi Kikelomo
In a bold move, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have jointly issued an ultimatum to the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) demanding the reversal of the recent hike in electricity tariffs. The ultimatum, delivered in a letter dated May 3, 2024, gives NERC until Sunday, May 12, to retract the tariff increase or face unprecedented industrial action.
The letter, addressed to the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NERC and copied to key government officials and stakeholders, expresses deep concern over the substantial hike in electricity tariffs across the nation, which surged from N65/kWh to N225/kWh. Joe Ajaero, President of NLC, and Festus Osifo, President of TUC, highlighted the moral and statutory implications of the decision, asserting that it unfairly burdens Nigerian citizens amidst ongoing economic challenges.
According to the unions, NERC’s approval of the tariff hike contradicts its mandated role as a regulator to ensure fair and just electricity pricing. They accuse the commission of neglecting its duty to protect the interests of the people and instead aligning with electricity distribution and generating companies to exploit consumers.
The ultimatum demands not only the reversal of the tariff hike but also the cessation of discriminatory practices in electricity billing and the reinstatement of statutory regulations governing the industry. Failure to comply by the specified deadline will result in mass mobilization and occupation of NERC and distribution companies’ offices nationwide.
The contentious tariff increase, approved by NERC on April 3, particularly affects customers classified under Band A, who receive 20 hours of electricity supply daily. The move has sparked outrage among labor unions and the general populace, who view it as a betrayal of trust and an infringement on their rights.
As the deadline approaches, the fate of the tariff hike hangs in the balance, with NERC under mounting pressure to heed the unions’ demands or brace for widespread industrial unrest.
