The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its counterpart, the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), have issued a joint ultimatum to the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) regarding the recent increase in electricity tariffs.
In a letter dated May 3, 2024, addressed to the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NERC and copied to various stakeholders, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the Ministers of Labour and Power, the labor unions set a deadline of May 12 for the withdrawal of the tariff hike.
The unions expressed strong disapproval of the decision to raise electricity tariffs from N65/kWh to N225/kWh, describing it as morally reprehensible and a disregard for fundamental principles and statutory obligations. They emphasized that the hike places an undue burden on Nigerians who are already facing numerous challenges. The NLC and TUC vowed to take unprecedented industrial action if the tariff increase is not rescinded.
In the letter, the unions reminded NERC of its role as the regulator of the electricity sector and its responsibility to ensure fair and just electricity tariffs. They accused NERC of neglecting its duties and siding with the interests of the electricity industry instead of protecting the rights of the masses and workers. The unions expressed disappointment that NERC had become complicit in implementing an oppressive pricing regime.
The NLC and TUC called on NERC to fulfill its mandate as an unbiased ombudsman in the electricity industry and to act in the best interests of Nigerian workers and people. They emphasized that the laws governing the commission require it to regulate electricity tariffs fairly and protect the rights of consumers.
With the ultimatum set to expire on May 12, the NLC and TUC await a response from NERC. The labor unions remain resolute in their stance against the tariff hike and are prepared to take appropriate industrial action to defend the interests of Nigerian workers and alleviate the burden on consumers.