The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has firmly opposed the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s (NERC) plan to migrate electricity consumers from lower tariffs to Band A.
This position was outlined in a communiqué issued at the conclusion of the NLC’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Yola, Adamawa State. The communiqué, jointly signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja, was released to journalists on Sunday in Abuja.
The labour leaders expressed strong disapproval of NERC’s ongoing reclassification of electricity consumers, describing the proposed migration as a veiled attempt to impose higher tariffs under the guise of service improvement. They argued that the move would result in unjustified financial burdens on the masses and exacerbate economic hardship for both the working class and the broader Nigerian population.
According to the communiqué, such an increase in electricity tariffs would only deepen the suffering of Nigerians, especially given the current economic climate.
“With inflation at an all-time high, stagnant wages, and an escalating cost of living, the NEC warns that any further increase in electricity tariffs will be met with mass resistance,” the communiqué stated.
The NLC further resolved to immediately mobilise for a nationwide protest should the Ministry of Power and NERC proceed with their plan to raise electricity tariffs.
Additionally, the NEC acknowledged the agreement reached between the NLC and the federal government through the Joint 10-Man Committee, which reduced the proposed telecommunications tariff increase from 50% to 35%. The NLC warned that if the agreement is not implemented by 1 March, its National Administrative Council (NAC) will take necessary steps to enforce compliance.
Regarding the Labour Party, the NEC directed the NAC to take immediate action to rebrand, merge, or form coalitions to protect the interests of Nigerian workers. It reaffirmed the Congress’s commitment to preventing the party from being hijacked by political elements that do not represent the aspirations of the working class.
The NLC urged workers to remain resolute, organised, and unwavering in the collective struggle for a fair and equitable Nigeria.
