They called on the government to reconsider and abandon the proposed hike.
The NLC criticized the planned tariff increase as insensitive and heartless, while the TUC described it as a display of complete disregard for the suffering of the masses in the country. The CSOs joined in the opposition, demanding that the government immediately withdraw the proposed tariff hike, stating that it is unjustifiable and unfair.
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) had justified the tariff increase by citing the depreciation of the Naira against the Dollar and the rising inflation rate. However, the NLC argued that with the contemplation of rising school fees in tertiary institutions, including privately-owned ones, along with other impending costs and tariffs, life in Nigeria could become increasingly challenging.
In a statement issued by NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero, the union urged the government to prioritize the collective welfare and safety of the masses by reconsidering the proposed tariff hike.
The statement read: “The plan to increase electricity tariff by 40% by July 1 is both insensitive and callous and reflects an organised indifference to the well-being of consumers, especially, the poor masses.
“The massive increase is explained away as a response to the over 100 per cent increase in the pump price of premium motor spirit, otherwise known as petrol.
“Details reveal a movement in inflation from 16.9% to 22.41 (threatening to needle 30), and a shift in exchange rate from N441 to N750.
“We believe not even these figures are a justification for this reckless proposed tariff increase.
The issue of capacity to pay and quality of service delivery are not only germane but superior to any rationalisation by market logic.”
The NLC contended that there had been increases without notice in violation of statutes, saying “the service providers, in spite of sundry support, have not been able to meet the threshold of 5,000 megawatts.
“Coupled with this, there have been surreptitious increases without notice in violation of the statutes.
