The electricity tariff hike by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) is still a major issue in the country, as a matter of fact, it is now a priority for the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
Now, the NLC has announced plans for a nationwide picket of the offices of the NERC and various electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) across the country.
The Labour movement’s contention with NERC comes after the regulatory body announced an increase in electricity tariffs for Band A customers, which has been met with widespread criticism from various stakeholders, including the House of Representatives and the Nigerian Bar Association.
The electricity tariff hike, right from the very moment it was announced was greeted with outright rejection.
Electricity Tariff Hike
Weeks have passed, yet, Nigerians remain unshaken, the call for the reversal of the hike intensifies day by day.
Meanwhile, the NLC had previously issued an ultimatum to NERC, demanding a reversal of the tariff increase by May 12, 2024, or face mass action.
Furthermore, this new tariff saw prices for Band A customers rise to ₦225 per kilowatt-hour, up from the previous ₦68/kWh.
Organised labour has argued that the hike violates the procedural norms set by law.
Also, it severely impacts the economic welfare of millions of Nigerians.
NLC Vs NERC
The unions stressed that the increase in tariffs is untenable in the current economic climate.
According to them, it exacerbates the hardships faced by the average Nigerian.
Now, the stage is set for a significant showdown between labour unions and regulatory authorities.
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Meanwhile, the nationwide picket is set to hold on Monday, May 13, 2024.
The picket is part of a broader protest against the recent hike in electricity tariffs.
This decision follows a directive issued after a crucial meeting of the NLC’s Central Working Committee (CWC) on April 30, 2024.
Chris Uyot, the NLC Acting Secretary-General, confirmed the move in a press statement released on Friday.
“The nationwide picketing is slated for Monday, 13 May 2024,” Uyot said.