Organised labour is set to commence nationwide protests today over the recent electricity tariff hike and removal of subsidy in the power sector by the Federal Government.
The Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress have confirmed the planned protests, insisting on the reversal of the tariff hike to the subsidy era. The protests are expected to lead to the shutdown of key offices including the Abuja headquarters of the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission and the Ministry of Power, as well as state offices of power distribution companies. The tariff hike, announced by the NERC in April, saw a 240% increase for Band A customers, prompting widespread outcry from various stakeholders.
Despite justifications for the increase, including warnings of a nationwide blackout by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, if the hike was not implemented, there have been calls for its reversal. The House of Representatives and various other groups have demanded the suspension of the new tariff regime, citing concerns over its impact on consumers.
Source: PUNCH