The President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrade Festus Osifo, on Wednesday, said it was unethical for Nigerians to pay high electricity tariffs.
The TUC also urged the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to reverse the increase in electricity tariff within one week.
During the 2024 Workers’ Day in Abuja, Osifo expressed dissatisfaction with the epileptic power situation in the country, which is affecting the country’s economic growth.
He said it is imperative that any nation incapable of effectively and efficiently managing its energy resources faces certain ruin.
He said: “One of the pivotal factors constraining our nation is our glaring incompetence in managing this sector for the collective welfare of our citizens.
“Power, regardless of its source, remains paramount in kickstarting any economy, while oil and gas are indispensable for robust energy success in every country”.
According to him, the plight of the power sector remains unchanged over a decade after privatisation of the sector.
“The reasons are glaringly evident. As long as those who sold the companies remain the buyers, Nigerians will continue to face formidable challenges in the power sector.
”It is unethical to force Nigerians to pay higher tariffs for non-existent electricity.
“Estimated billing is an extortion and a daylight robbery against Nigerians”, he said.
NERC approved an increase in electricity tariff for customers under the Band A classification.
The agency’s Vice Chairman, Musliu Oseni explained that the increase would see the customers paying N225 kilowatt per hour from the current N66.
It was noted that customers under Band A are those enjoying 20 hours of electricity supply daily.
