NLC Disappointed By Nigerian Government’s Silence On Reversal Of Electricity-Tariff Hike (Details)

NLC Disappointed By Nigerian Government’s Silence On Reversal Of Electricity-Tariff Hike (Details)

The Nigeria Labour Congress has expressed disappointment at the federal government’s silence regarding the April 3 electricity tariff hike. This sentiment was conveyed in the NLC’s communique issued on Tuesday following its National Executive Council meeting, where it decided to suspend its indefinite strike for one week.

This development follows the federal government’s agreement, during a meeting with organized labour on Monday, to increase the minimum wage to an amount higher than N60,000. However, the government has not addressed the second part of labour’s demand, which concerns the reversal of the electricity tariff hike.

The NLC voiced its disappointment over the government’s lack of action and communication regarding the reversal of the electricity tariff hike and the elimination of the discriminatory classification of electricity consumers into Bands.

“The NEC reaffirms that these issues are crucial in alleviating the financial burden on Nigerian workers and the general populace. The electricity tariff hike and discriminatory Band classification remain unacceptable and must be addressed alongside the wage increase,” the NLC stated.

It is worth recalling that on April 3, the NERC approved a tariff increment of over N200 per kWh for customers receiving 20-24 hours of power supply, sparking reactions among Nigerians. In response, the government initially announced a minor reduction of N18, bringing it down to N208.80 per kWh for Band A customers.

However, unsatisfied with this reduction, the NLC, the Trade Union Congress, and other organizations called for the complete reversal of the electricity tariff hike, presenting it as part of their demands to the federal government, alongside the issue of minimum wage.