In a bold stance against the recent surge in electricity tariff, Senator Ali Ndume, the chief whip of the Nigerian Senate, has vehemently opposed the decision by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to increase electricity rates for consumers under the B and A classification.
The move, announced by NERC on Wednesday, outlines a significant increase in tariffs, nearly tripling the existing rates, with consumers receiving 20 hours of electricity supply daily now facing a payment of N225 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), effective from April 3.
The decision has sparked widespread public outcry across the nation, with citizens expressing deep concern over the added financial burden during an already challenging period.
In a statement released on Saturday, Senator Ndume expressed his dismay at the timing of the tariff hike, asserting that Nigerians are still reeling from the repercussions of the federal government's removal of petrol subsidies last year.
"The news of the increment came to me and many of my colleagues as a shock. It also came at a time when the National Assembly was on a break," Senator Ndume remarked, highlighting the lack of consultation with elected representatives regarding such a significant policy change.
Citing the ongoing economic hardships faced by Nigerians, Senator Ndume emphasized the need for the government to prioritize the welfare of its citizens, particularly amidst soaring inflation rates and the lingering effects of the subsidy removal.
"The inflation is still very high. The prices of food commodities, drugs, transportation, school fees, and other daily expenditures are still on the high side," Senator Ndume stated, underscoring the financial strain experienced by many households across the country.
Furthermore, Senator Ndume called upon the federal government to focus on addressing critical issues such as providing stable electricity and mitigating inflation before implementing any new tariffs on essential services.
"How do we expect the people to survive? We've to be very realistic and feel the pulse of the people we represent as a government," Senator Ndume asserted, echoing the sentiments of many Nigerians grappling with the harsh economic realities of daily life.
As the debate over the electricity tariff hike continues to unfold, Senator Ndume's outspoken opposition serves as a rallying cry for government accountability and a reminder of the urgent need to prioritize the needs of the Nigerian people above all else.
