NLC slams further electricity tariff hike, demands cancellation

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the increase in electricity tariffs by the Federal Government.

The Congress was reacting to the increase in electricity tariff by electricity distribution companies (DisCoS) for “Band A” customers from N206.80 to N209.5 with effect from July 1.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, NLC President, Joe Ajaero, said the tariff hike for “A” band customers by the DisCoS was the height of impunity and arrogance.

The statement read: “This will of course put more companies out of business and create more hardship for consumers.

“This increase follows the unresolved controversy surrounding a 250 percent tariff hike that led to national paralysis including the closure of 300 businesses according to MAN.”

He noted that the 250 percent increase had sparked anger among residents and the ire of organized labor, whose members staged a one-day protest because it was considered unreasonable and a violation of existing tariff increase regulations.

“We demand a reversal. The only reason the action was stopped was the firm assurance from the relevant parties including the National Assembly that the matter would be handled calmly.

“The fact that there is another increase, instead of a reversal as promised, is further evidence of the government’s dishonesty, as well as a measure of its insensitivity.

“We have no doubt that these frequent displays of dishonesty and gross insensitivity will turn the public against the government or vice versa,” the statement added.

Ajaero noted that the three reasons given by DiScOs included exchange rates, interest rates, and gas costs as justification for the increase.

NLC condemns another electricity tariff hike, demands reversal first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.