Electricity Tariff Hike Sparks Outrage Among Nigerian Coalition

The Coalition for Affordable and Regular Electricity (CARE) is vehemently opposing the recent electricity tariff hike in Nigeria. Led by Comrade Chinedu Bosah, the coalition’s national coordinator, the group is calling for an immediate reversal of the tariff increase and is pushing for an end to the privatisation of the power sector.

The uproar follows the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s (NERC) announcement of a significant hike in electricity tariffs. In their statement, titled “Outrageous Tariff Hike Amidst Growing Cost Of Living Is Insensitive,” CARE urges organised labour and pro-masses organisations to join forces in resisting the current and upcoming increases in electricity tariffs.

CARE criticises the administration of President Bola Tinubu for its continuous escalation of tariffs on essential commodities and public utilities. The group contends that the electricity tariff hike unfairly impacts workers and the poor, despite claims that it primarily targets the wealthy and middle class. They highlight that the exorbitant cost of electricity is a key factor in driving businesses to relocate overseas, contributing to the nation’s rising unemployment rates.

The coalition condemns the development of what they describe as an apartheid-style electricity distribution system, where affluent communities receive extensive power supply while less privileged areas suffer. According to CARE, this discriminatory practice overlooks the fact that the power sector was constructed with the contributions of all Nigerians, including the working class and the impoverished.

Amid escalating economic turmoil and increasing poverty, CARE warns that the electricity tariff hike will lead to greater financial hardship, inflation, and a surge in production costs. The group challenges the government’s subsidy figures, labelling them as manipulative and unreliable. They argue that the so-called “electricity subsidy” is tainted by corruption and wasteful spending, and that the government’s devaluation of the Naira unjustly justifies the hikes in electricity tariffs and fuel prices.

CARE’s critique extends to the privatisation of the power sector, which they claim has led to frequent electricity system collapses, skyrocketing tariffs, and widespread darkness. They point out the government’s continued financial support for failing private power companies, despite the evident failure of the privatisation programme.

In light of these challenges, CARE calls for the re-nationalisation of the power sector, advocating for public ownership and democratic control by the working masses. They believe this approach will lead to significant public investment, reduced electricity costs, and ultimately, a more equitable and sustainable energy future for Nigeria.

As the Tinubu government grapples with these pressing issues, the voices of the coalition and the Nigerian populace grow louder, demanding a fair and just resolution to the ongoing electricity tariff hike crisis.