Emmanuel OchayiLabor unions across Nigeria are gearing up for nationwide protests starting today over the recent electricity tariff hike imposed by the Federal Government.
The hike, which saw a 240% increase for Band A customers, has sparked widespread discontent among citizens and various organizations.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelOlatunji Ambali, National Treasurer of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and Tommy Etim, National Deputy President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), affirmed the planned protests in a series of interviews, emphasizing the demand for a reversal of the subsidy era tariff.
The electricity tariff hike, announced by the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) in April, drew criticism from multiple quarters, including the House of Representatives, civil society groups, and electricity consumers. Despite government claims that the increase would ensure improved power supply, concerns over its impact on economic growth and affordability persist.
READ ALSO: New Electricity Tariff Hike Will Reduce Subsidy By 40% – NERC
Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, defended the hike, warning of a nationwide blackout if it wasn’t implemented. However, labor unions remained steadfast in their call for reversal, citing dissatisfaction with the current power situation and the ethical concerns of charging higher tariffs for inconsistent service.
Following a one-week ultimatum issued by labor unions, NERC announced a slight reduction in the electricity tariff hike, attributing it to the appreciation of the naira in the foreign exchange market. This move, however, failed to appease the unions, who are now mobilizing their members for widespread protests.
Labor leaders emphasized the collective nature of the struggle, urging other sectors of society to join the demonstrations. Civil society groups have thrown their support behind the protests, decrying government policies that exacerbate the plight of Nigerians.
Dr. Jackson Omenazu of the International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights expressed solidarity with the labor unions, stressing the need for policies that alleviate rather than increase the suffering of the people. Similarly, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre and the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre pledged support for the protests, calling on the government to address the grievances raised by organized labor.
As tensions mount and anticipation builds for today’s demonstrations, the outcome remains uncertain. However, what is clear is the determination of labor unions and civil society groups to push for meaningful change and advocate for the welfare of Nigerians amidst challenging economic circumstances.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
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