The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have jointly appealed to the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and Power Sector operators to reverse the recent increase in electricity tariffs within one week.
This call comes amidst growing dissatisfaction with the current state of the country’s power sector, which has been plagued by an unreliable power supply, adversely impacting economic growth.
In a joint speech delivered on Wednesday to mark the 2024 Workers’ Day in Abuja, Mr. Joe Ajaero, President of the NLC, and Mr. Fetus Osifo, President of the TUC, expressed grave concern over the persistent power outages and the detrimental effects they have on the nation’s economy.
The duo emphasized the crucial role that energy plays in driving economic development and stressed that any nation incapable of effectively managing its energy resources faces certain ruin.
Highlighting the urgent need for collaboration between the government and the people, Ajaero and Osifo underscored the importance of establishing frameworks that ensure equitable access to energy for all Nigerians. They called on the government to prioritize the development of the energy sector and to work in partnership with stakeholders to address the challenges facing the industry.
The labor leaders also emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in the management of the power sector, urging regulatory bodies and power operators to prioritize the interests of the Nigerian people.
They stressed that the recent increase in electricity tariffs only adds to the burden already borne by ordinary citizens and urged swift action to alleviate their suffering.
In closing, Ajaero and Osifo reiterated their demand for the reversal of the electricity tariff hike within one week, warning that failure to address the concerns of the Nigerian people could have far-reaching consequences for the stability and prosperity of the nation.
