Organised labour in Nigeria, represented by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), has issued a stern ultimatum to the federal government and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) regarding the recent hike in electricity tariffs. Labour has set a deadline of May 12 for the reversal of the tariff hike to N65/kwh or faces nationwide picketing of NERC and Electricity Distribution Companies (DISCOs) offices.
The labour unions, led by NLC President Joe Ajaero and TUC counterpart Festus Osifo, expressed strong objections to the discriminatory pricing regime introduced by NERC, alleging collusion with DISCOs and Generation Companies (GENCOs) to exploit Nigerian consumers. In a joint letter addressed to the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NERC, they demanded the restoration of statutory obligations and cessation of arbitrary tariff increases.
The unions accused NERC of disregarding its regulatory duties and betraying the trust of Nigerian citizens by siding with industry stakeholders instead of safeguarding consumer interests. They highlighted the legal violations and adverse effects of the tariff hike, emphasizing the need for immediate corrective action to prevent further exploitation of consumers.
Labour’s ultimatum includes demands for the reversal of the tariff hike, cessation of discriminatory pricing practices, and restoration of statutory regulations governing the electricity industry. Failure to comply by May 12 will result in nationwide picketing of NERC and DISCOs offices until justice is served.
In response to the looming labour action, NLC’s acting General Secretary, Chris Ufot, directed state branches to prepare for picketing scheduled to commence on May 13. This coordinated effort aims to mobilize workers across the country in solidarity against the unjust electricity tariff hike.
Meanwhile, NLC President Joe Ajaero defended labour’s proposal for a new minimum wage of N615,000, citing the skyrocketing cost of living in Nigeria. He argued that the proposed amount reflects the current economic realities faced by Nigerian workers, emphasizing the need for commensurate pay rises to address the rising cost of goods and services.
Labour’s stance underscores the growing discontent among Nigerian workers over economic policies that exacerbate financial burdens. As the deadline approaches, tensions escalate, setting the stage for a potential showdown between organised labour and regulatory authorities.
