NLC President Warns Against Electricity Tariff Hike, Calls for Immediate Reversal

Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has issued a stern warning to the Bola Tinubu-led government and Electricity Distribution Companies (DISCOs) regarding the recent increase in electricity tariffs.

In a statement released on Thursday, Ajaero expressed grave concerns over the impact of the tariff hike, particularly for ‘Band A’ customers, which he asserted could exacerbate economic hardships and force more companies out of business.

Ajaero highlighted that the NLC’s previous protests against a 250% tariff hike had been temporarily suspended based on assurances from authorities, including the National Assembly, for a resolution.

However, he lamented that instead of a rollback as promised, a new tariff increment has been implemented, signaling what he described as government’s insincerity and insensitivity to the plight of citizens.

“The latest hike, from N206.80 to N209.5 for ‘Band A’ customers effective July 1, reflects impunity and arrogance on the part of DISCOs and will undoubtedly worsen the economic situation,” Ajaero stated in the release.

He criticized the reasons cited by DISCOs – exchange rate fluctuations, interest rates, and gas costs—as inadequate justifications, arguing that they only address symptoms rather than the root causes of Nigeria’s energy crisis.

Calling the tariff hike unjustifiable and malevolent, Ajaero demanded an immediate reversal, urging the government and DISCOs to desist from policies that he believes harm both the people and the economy.

“We demand that the government and DISCOs cease actions that undermine the welfare of Nigerians and exacerbate economic challenges,” he concluded in the statement.