Abuja, June 11, 2024 – Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, has warned the federal government against any significant increase in electricity tariff.
He said any significant increase in the tariff would have far-reaching consequences on the economy and the livelihood of the Nigerians.
Abbas gave the warning at a special public hearing on the increase in electricity tariff by the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
The speaker, who was represented by his Deputy, Benjamin Kalu, said the recent decision by the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission to increase electricity tariffs had sparked widespread discontent and apprehension across the nation.
“Therefore, it is essential that we carefully assess all factors before making any decisions that may affect the affordability and accessibility of electricity for our citizens.
“It is imperative that we engage in constructive dialogue to address these issues and ensure that any adjustments made are fair, transparent, and ultimately beneficial to all parties involved.
“As representatives of the Nigerian people, it is our duty to carefully consider the implications of such policies on our constituents’ well-being and livelihoods.
“Our goal is to ensure that any adjustments made to electricity tariffs are fair, equitable, and ultimately beneficial to all stakeholders involved.
“We must strive to strike a balance that safeguards the interests of consumers while also enabling sustainable growth and development within the energy sector.”
The Speaker emphasized the importance of engaging in wider consultations with all relevant stakeholders before any tariff adjustments, stressing that this approach aligns with Section 33 of the Electricity Act 2024, which mandates a just and fair electricity price regime.
He also stressed the urgent need to address critical issues within the electricity value chain that contribute to technical and commercial losses which ultimately serve as a burden to consumers who are indirectly compelled to bear these costs.
He called for constructive dialogue from stakeholders and provided valuable insights that will guide the House in finding a balanced solution to this pressing issue.
Victor Nwokolo (PDP, Delta), the Chairman of the Committee, said since the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission announced an increase in electricity tariff from N64 to N225 per kilowatts, the Committee had received a lot of complaints on the process and the substance of the regulatory action of NERC.
He said many of the complaints related to the lack of consultation by the regulator as required by law before approving the increase. Others relate to the lack of 20 hours of electricity supply as promised by the regulator which is not been delivered.
Nwokolo said as representatives of the people, members of the House must take up these complaints and ensure that the minister, the regulator and the operators provide the needed information for them to report to the plenary on how legal, rational and reasonable all parties have exercised their mandates. (GB
(GBN)
