THE Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly opposed the Federal Government’s plan to adjust electricity tariffs for customers in Bands A, B, and C.
In a statement issued today after its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Yola, Adamawa State, the union warned that it would mobilize nationwide protests if the government proceeds with the proposed tariff changes.
Last Thursday, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, announced plans to upgrade lower bands to Band A.
However, the NLC, in a communique signed by its General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja, rejected what it described as the “forced migration” of consumers from lower bands to Band A.
“The NEC unequivocally condemns the ongoing reclassification of electricity consumers by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), which seeks to impose higher tariffs under the guise of service improvement. This move is a blatant act of economic exploitation targeting the working class and the broader Nigerian population,” the statement read.
The NLC accused the government of perpetuating economic hardship through relentless tariff hikes, excessive taxation, and policies that worsen living conditions.
It highlighted how inflation, stagnant wages, and soaring living costs have already burdened Nigerians, while the government continues to shift the consequences of its fiscal mismanagement onto the people.
The labour union warned that any further increase in electricity tariffs would trigger mass resistance. It vowed to mobilize nationwide protests if the Ministry of Power and NERC proceed with what it termed an “exploitative” tariff hike.
“NLC will not remain silent while Nigerians suffer at the hands of capitalist profiteers and their government allies,” the statement concluded.
Nigeria has long struggled with persistent power sector challenges, including inconsistent policies, inadequate investments, and operational inefficiencies, despite the privatization of the industry.
In 2024, NERC approved an electricity price increase, setting the cost at approximately N250 per unit for Band A customers.
Meanwhile, alternative energy sources such as petrol and diesel have seen a fivefold price surge, further compounding the economic strain on consumers.
Additionally, NERC has granted some states’ electricity regulatory commissions licenses to operate power plants and distribute electricity.