Organized labour has called for an immediate reversal of the recent electricity tariff hike by distribution companies (DISCOs) for “Band A” customers. Effective July 1, 2024, these customers will pay N209.5 per unit, up from N206.80.
Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, condemned the increase as the “height of impunity and arrogance.” He warned that it would force more companies out of business and exacerbate consumer difficulties.
Recently, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) raised concerns that unresolved issues from an earlier 250% tariff hike had led to significant disruptions and the closure of 300 businesses. This earlier increase had already sparked widespread outrage, leading to a one-day protest by citizens and organized labour.
Ajaero emphasized that previous protests were paused only because of assurances from relevant authorities, including the National Assembly, that the matter would be addressed quietly. He criticized the new hike, stating it demonstrates the government’s insincerity and insensitivity.
He described the increase as “unjustifiable, unreasonable, and malevolent,” calling on the government and DISCOs to halt actions that harm both the people and the economy. The statement reads in part:
“The hike in tariff by DisCos from N206.80 to N209.5 (effective July 1) for the so-called Band A customers represents the height of impunity and arrogance and will certainly put more companies out of business as well as create more difficulties for consumers.
“We had demanded a reversal; the only reason that action was paused was a firm assurance from relevant quarters, including the National Assembly, that the matter would be dealt with quietly.
“The three excuses DisCos gave (exchange rate, interest rate, and cost of gas) as justification for this increase underscore our argument that governments and entities in the energy sector are not serious about finding an enduring solution to our energy crisis. They are treating the symptoms.
“Given the further damage this latest wave of increases 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 killing the people and the economy,” Ajaero added.
