Electricity tariff hike, a reckless decision- NEF tackles FG

By Innocent Raphael

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has strongly opposed the recent decision by the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government to raise electricity tariffs in Nigeria, labeling it reckless and indifferent to the people’s welfare.

NEF spokesman, Abdul- Azeez Suleiman, in a statement, noted that the drastic increase in electricity tariff will have a significant negative impact on the already struggling population, further exacerbating the gap between the rich and the poor.

The forum argued that this increase will worsen the plight of the already struggling population, widening the gap between the rich and the poor.

Urging immediate reconsideration, they highlight the dire economic circumstances faced by the majority of Nigerians.

NEF’s stance follows closely after the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) announced tariff hikes for Band A customers, prompting concerns about the affordability of electricity for the average citizen.

The statement read in part, “Under the new tariff plan, 24 hours of electricity per day will cost a staggering N5,400, amounting to an unbearable monthly total of N162,000 and an astounding yearly total of N1,971,000.

“These exorbitant amounts are simply unaffordable for the majority of Nigerians, who are already grappling with economic hardship and trying to make ends meet.

“By implementing such exorbitant electricity tariffs, the government is effectively perpetuating a form of economic oppression that will only serve to widen the gap between the rich and the poor in Nigeria. It is imperative that this act of exploitation be firmly rejected and not be allowed to stand unchallenged.

“The decision to implement these tariffs without considering the impact on the average citizen is not only callous but also short-sighted. The resulting consequences could potentially lead to internal security threats as the disparity between the haves and the have-nots becomes more pronounced.

“The NEF strongly believes that this decision was made without carefully considering the economic realities faced by the majority of Nigerians and it highlights the government’s lack of empathy towards its citizens.

“Instead of implementing policies that would alleviate the suffering of the people, the government has chosen to further exploit them. This introduction of exorbitant electricity tariffs is not only unjust but also a clear indication of the disconnect between the government and the people they are meant to serve.

“It is a blatant display of the government’s blatant disregard for the well-being of its citizens and a betrayal of the trust placed in them.”

The NEF further enjoined the government to reconsider what it labelled as an ” ill-conceived decision”, while taking note of the dire economic situation faced by the majority of Nigerians.

In conclusion, the forum urged Nigerians to rise up and demand accountability from their leaders, reminding them that “their primary duty is to serve the people, not exploit them for personal gains”.