The Federal Government’s plan to increase electricity tariffs has been met with criticism from experts and labour unions. Professor Adeola Adenikinju, President of the Nigerian Economic Society (NES), and Dr. Samson Olalere, a development economist, have both faulted the planned increase, citing the lack of stable electricity supply and the high inflationary environment.
The Campaign for Democratic and Workers’ Rights (CDWR) has also condemned the recent 50% hike in telecommunications services tariff approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
The group described the increase as “outrageous” and accused the government of prioritizing the interests of big businesses and international financial institutions over those of ordinary Nigerians.
In response to the backlash, the Federal Government has invited labour leaders for talks, with a meeting scheduled for today. The government has also defended the tariff increases, citing rising operating costs driven by factors such as fuel price hikes and increased electricity tariffs.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has planned a nationwide protest for tomorrow to oppose the tariff hikes. The CDWR has declared its support for the protest and urged the unions to go beyond symbolic rallies and instead organize a sustained mass struggle to challenge all exploitative policies.
