The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has issued a stern warning to the Bola Tinubu-led administration and Electricity Distribution Companies (DISCOs) over the recent hike in electricity tariffs. In a statement on Thursday, Ajaero highlighted that the increase, especially for ‘Band A’ customers, has severely impacted businesses and added to the difficulties faced by consumers. He noted that the NLC’s initial protests subsided due to assurances from the National Assembly that the issue would be resolved quietly.
Ajaero expressed deep disappointment over the new tariff hike from N206.80 to N209.5, which took effect on July 1. He described the increase as a demonstration of impunity and arrogance, predicting it would force more companies to shut down and exacerbate consumer hardships. The NLC had previously demanded a reversal of an earlier 250% tariff hike, which had led to widespread business closures and a one-day protest by organized labor. The latest increase, he argued, reflects the government’s insensitivity and lack of commitment to addressing the energy crisis effectively.
The NLC has called for an immediate reversal of the tariff hike, labeling it as unjustifiable and harmful to both the people and the economy. Ajaero criticized the government and DISCOs for their insincerity, citing the justifications given—exchange rates, interest rates, and the cost of gas—as mere excuses. He warned that such actions would inevitably lead to heightened tensions between the government and the populace.