News
Hike in electricity: It’s a massive betrayal against Nigerians, Reps minority caucus tells FG
… insists increase is across board not for 12% of the consumers as claimed
…declares it’s inhuman lacks human face
The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives says the hike in electricity tariff across the country by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) is insensitive and lacks human face.
Rep. Kingsley Chinda, the minority leader, House of Representative said this in a statement on Friday in Abuja.
He said such an abrupt hike placed an unbearable burden on the already strained populace, exacerbating economic hardships and widening the chasm of inequality among the citizenry.
“Such a hike, which is over 200 per cent above the rate of inflation, utterly disregards the plight of ordinary citizens, who are grappling with the adverse effects of the removal of oil subsidy.
He said that the citizenry had been faced with, galloping inflation, unemployment, and inadequate access to basic amenities.
*We note that in the immediate aftermath of the announcement of the tariff hike, NERC claimed that the hike affects only 12 per cent of electricity consumers who enjoy a minimum of 20 hours of electricity a day.
“The truth has become stark that this is stark lie. The hike, from data put out by the DISCOS, affects all electricity consumers.”
He added that this habitual resorts to decits and outright lies clearly puts government in bad light and erodes the trust and confidence of the populace in the government.
He said, the timing of the tariff hike, amidst prevailing economic challenges, was not only insensitive but also detrimental to the well-being of Nigerians.
He added that it further highlights the disconnect between policymakers and the realities faced by the masses of the people.
He urged President Bola Tinubu to prevail on NERC, to rescind its decision and prioritise the welfare of the people.
He said that transparent dialogue and inclusive decision-making processes were imperative to address the root causes of the energy sector’s inefficiencies and ensure sustainable solutions.
This according to him is such that it would benefit all stakeholders and not consistent and persistent increase in tariff.
He further called for increased accountability and transparency in the management of resources within the electricity sector.
“Citizens have the right to demand efficient service delivery and fair pricing mechanisms that align with their economic realities.
“In solidarity with the Nigerian people, we stand firm in our condemnation of this unjustifiable increase in electricity tariffs and call for immediate action to alleviate the burdens imposed on the populace, ” he said.
By Gloria Ikibah
As part of the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the House of Representatives is set to lead a historic march on Monday, November 25, 2024, in a bold effort to tackle gender-based violence (GBV) in the country.
The march, which begins at 8:00 AM, will see over 1,000 participants, including lawmakers and members of the public walk from the National Assembly to the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja. The event will culminate in the submission of a petition to the Inspector General of Police, demanding decisive action against GBV and greater protection for vulnerable groups.
Speaking about the initiative, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD., GCON, said, “This march and the activities that follow are not mere gestures but a reflection of our determination to confront gender-based violence head-on. We are committed to building a society where justice, equality, and safety prevail for all Nigerians.”
In a statement by the House Spokesperson, Rep. Akin Rotimi on Saturday in Abuja, he said, “The 10th House of Representatives has reaffirmed its commitment to systemic reforms, collaboration, and accountability in the fight against gender-based violence.
“In addition to the march, the House has outlined key activities in alignment with its Legislative Agenda (2023–2027) to sustain awareness and action throughout the campaign period.
“Sash Demonstration Ceremony – Tuesday, November 26, 2024
“Convergence of State Assembly Speakers – Monday, December 9, 2024. A strategic meeting at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, will bring together Speakers of State Houses of Assembly to discuss legislative measures for combating GBV nationwide.
“National Citizens’ Summit and GBV Conference 2024 – Tuesday, December 10, 2024. The summit will focus on constitutional reforms and securing endorsements for gender equality initiatives led by the House of Representatives”.
Naijablitznews.com reports that this year’s 16 Days of Activism aims to galvanise nationwide efforts and inspire collective action to protect human rights, ensure justice, and create a safer, more equitable Nigeria.
President Bola Tinubu has departed Galeao Air force Basa (SBGL) Airport, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Saturday, for Abuja after attending the 19th G20 Leaders Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The President is due to arrive at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 10.00 p.m. (Nigerian time).
President Tinubu had attended the G20 Leaders summit where he endorsed the global alliance against hunger and poverty, which he said was pivotal.
The President also held bilateral talks with Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), who commended his administration’s economic reforms and their positive indicators.
He also presided over the signing of a 2.5 billion dollar Letter of Intent between the Nigerian government and the JBS S.A., a Brazilian company and one of the top three largest meat processing companies in the World.
The president was accompanied in the trip by senior government officials including the minister of foreign affairs yusuf Tuggar, the national security adviser, Nuhu RIBADU and many others.
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