The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed strong disapproval of the latest increase in electricity tariffs, countering the Federal Government’s previous assurance of a reversal.
In a statement released on Thursday in Abuja, NLC President Mr. Joe Ajaero criticized the tariff rise by DISCOs from N206.80 to N209.5 for band ‘A’ customers, effective July 1, 2024. Ajaero described the increase as an act of arrogance and a disregard for the economic struggles of the people.
“This decision will inevitably drive more businesses to closure and exacerbate the hardships faced by consumers,” Ajaero stated.
He highlighted the unresolved disputes over a previous 250% tariff increase, which had led to widespread protests and the shutdown of 300 businesses, according to the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).
Ajaero recounted that organized labour had protested the significant hike due to its perceived unreasonableness and the violation of existing tariff regulations. “We demand a reversal,” he said, noting that the initial protest was paused based on assurances from the National Assembly that the issue would be addressed.
The NLC president condemned the government’s perceived insincerity and insensitivity, pointing out that the latest hike was contrary to the promised reversal. He warned that such actions could strain the relationship between the government and the populace.
Ajaero also dismissed the justifications provided by DISCOs for the tariff increase—exchange rates, interest rates, and the cost of gas—as insufficient, arguing that these were mere symptoms of a deeper issue within the energy sector. “The government and energy sector entities are not serious about finding a long-term solution to the energy crisis,” he argued.
He called for an immediate rollback of the tariff hike, labeling it as “unjustifiable, unreasonable, and harmful.”
Ajaero urged the government and DISCOs to stop implementing policies that he believes are detrimental to both the people and the economy.