Amidst widespread discontent over the recent electricity tariff hike and removal of subsidy by the federal government, organized labour has issued reminder notices for a nationwide protest set to begin on Monday. The move aims to challenge the hike and its impact on citizens already grappling with economic hardships.
Labour’s planned picketing of all Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) offices, including the Ministry of Power and state power distribution company offices, is expected to disrupt operations, with the potential shutdown of the NERC headquarters in Abuja.
The tariff hike, which represents a significant 240 percent increase for Band A customers, has drawn criticism from various quarters, including the House of Representatives, civil society organizations, and the Nigerian Bar Association. Concerns have been raised about its effect on citizens and the economy.
While Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, justified the increase as necessary to prevent a nationwide blackout, organized labour, represented by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), insists on a reversal of the tariff hike.
In response to mounting pressure, the NERC recently announced a downward review of the tariff, attributing the reduction to the relative appreciation of the naira in the official foreign exchange window. However, labour unions remain resolute in their demand for a complete reversal.
Both the TUC and NLC have issued statements urging their members to participate in the planned picketing action at designated offices nationwide, emphasizing the need for affordable and reliable electricity for Nigerians.
As tensions escalate and protests loom, the government faces mounting pressure to address the grievances of citizens and find a sustainable solution to the electricity tariff issue, balancing the need for revenue generation with public welfare concerns.
