FCT Residents Demand Reduction in High Electricity Tariffs Amid Economic Hardship
Many residents in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have urged the Federal Government to lower the electricity tariffs for Band A customers. These customers, who benefit from at least 20 hours of daily power supply, are currently charged N209.5 per kilowatt-hour, making electricity a significant expense. The residents, hailing from areas like Lugbe, Area 10, and Apo resettlement, appreciate the reliable power but find the associated costs challenging, especially in the context of the current economic difficulties in the country.
Several FCT residents voiced their struggles, explaining that the high electricity costs are consuming a large portion of their income. Mrs. Amen Odigie, a civil servant, revealed that her monthly electricity bill often exceeds N30,000, which puts a strain on her salary. Similarly, Mr. Ugochukwu Okafor, a vulcanizer, said he cannot afford the Band A tariff on his income, while Mrs. Anita Adaje, a fashion designer, stated that high electricity costs are cutting into her business profits, making it difficult to remain operational.
Business owners like printers Mr. Festus Ogunbor and Mr. Chidi Okeke echoed similar concerns, with Ogunbor spending over N30,000 daily to keep his machines running. Both urged the government to consider lowering the tariffs to support local businesses and alleviate the burden on everyday citizens. This reduction, they argue, would provide much needed relief and potentially boost entrepreneurial activities across the FCT.
