NLC Slams FG for Insincerity, Insensitivity Over Electricity Tariff Hike

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has demanded an immediate reversal of the recent electricity tariff hike, accusing the Federal Government of insensitivity and insincerity.

The NLC criticized the increase in tariffs for Band A customers from N206.80 per kilowatt-hour to N209.5 per kilowatt-hour.

In a statement on Thursday, NLC President Joe Ajaero condemned the hike as an act of impunity and arrogance, arguing that it would force more companies out of business and create additional difficulties for consumers.

On Wednesday, distribution companies (DisCos) announced a new round of tariff hikes.

“The 250 percent hike drew the ire of the citizenry and organized labour, leading to a one-day protest against its unreasonableness and violation of existing tariff hike regulations,” Ajaero said.

“We had demanded a reversal. The only reason that action was paused was due to firm assurances from relevant quarters, including the National Assembly, that the matter would be handled quietly,” he added.

However, Ajaero decried the new hike instead of a reversal, arguing that it further proves the insincerity of the government and highlights its insensitivity.

“We have no doubt that this frequent display of insincerity and insensitivity will pit the people against the government,” he stated.

Ajaero explained that the three reasons given by DisCos—exchange rate, interest rate, and cost of gas—as justification for the increase underscore the argument that the government and energy sector entities are not serious about finding a lasting solution to the energy crisis.

He emphasized, “Given the further damage this latest increase will do to our economy, we demand an immediate reversal of the hike. It is unjustifiable, unreasonable, and malevolent. The government and DisCos should stop harming the people and the economy.”