NLC Condemns Increase In Electricity Tariff

The Nigeria Labour
Congress (NLC) has criticised the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) for the recent increase in tariff which became effective 1st of June 2014.
The National President of NLC, Abdulwaheed Omar, who condemned NERC for the action at a stakeholders meeting not in Abuja said the commission did consult the congress before going ahead to announce increase in tariff.
He noted that the amount of consumption should determine the rate paid by consumers stressing that what Nigerians expect at this point in time is improved power supply instead of increase in tariff.
The NLC boss said Nigerians were tried of excuses from the regulatory body which he said had been the issue since 70s and insisted that the regulatory body should match accessibility with affordability.
While urging NERC to properly investigate the activities of the Distribution Companies (DISCOs), Omar said the social service component of electricity must not be laid down for profit maximization because the consumers are always at the receiving end.
NERC chairman, Mr Sam Amadi, said the stakeholders, meeting was aimed at addressing issues of concern and finding the way forward.
He said in the privatized market, all companies are properly regulated and stressed the need for better partnership with civil society organizations and labour unions.