Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have issued a joint ultimatum to the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), demanding the withdrawal of the recent electricity tariff hike by May 12, 2024, or face unprecedented industrial action.
In a letter dated May 3, 2024, addressed to the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NERC and copied to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Ministers of Labour and Power, and electricity distribution companies, the presidents of NLC and TUC, Joe Ajaero and Festus Osifo, expressed grave concerns over the tariff hike.
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The letter described the decision as morally reprehensible and a disregard for statutory obligations, especially considering the current economic difficulties facing Nigerians. It accused NERC of collaborating with electricity industry stakeholders to exploit Nigerian workers and citizens.
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The unions demanded the immediate reversal of the tariff hike to N65/kWh, cessation of discriminatory practices in electricity billing, and restoration of statutory regulations. They warned of swift and decisive action, including mobilizing members to occupy all NERC and distribution companies’ offices nationwide if their demands are not met by May 12.
