NATIONWIDE PROTEST Looms As NLC Makes Shocking Announcement Over Electricity Tariff Hike; SEE Their Plan Today
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has publicly announced its plans for a nationwide picket of the Nigerian Energy Regulatory Commission (NERC) and multiple energy distribution firms (DISCOs) across the country. This demonstration against the recent increase in power prices has been scheduled for Monday, May 13, 2024. The decision to proceed with this action follows a directive that was made after a significant meeting of the NLC’s Central Working Committee (CWC) on April 30, 2024.
The NLC Acting Secretary-General, Chris Uyot, has verified the details of this event in a press release that was issued on Friday. According to Uyot, the national picketing is indeed scheduled to take place on Monday, May 13, 2024.
The dispute between the Labour movement and NERC originated when the regulatory body announced an escalation in electricity tariffs specifically for Band A customers. This announcement has faced widespread criticism from various stakeholders, including the Nigerian Bar Association and the House of Representatives.
Organized labor has emphasized that the tariff hike not only violates legal procedural norms but also hurts the economic well-being of millions of Nigerians. NERC had previously been given until May 12, 2024, to reverse the tariff increase, or else face mass action.
The labor unions have highlighted that the escalation in tariffs is unfeasible given the current economic climate and exacerbates the hardships faced by the average Nigerian. With the ultimatum set to expire just a day before the planned picket, the stage is set for a significant confrontation between the labor unions and the regulatory authorities.
The news of these developments has sparked numerous reactions from the public. One individual expressed their confusion and sought assistance, questioning the existence of labor unions in the country. Another person vented their frustration and questioned the actions of Tinubu and the government, remarking on the continuous occurrence of price hikes and suggesting a negative intent towards the poor and common people of the country.
What are your thoughts and reactions to this, my fellow readers? Kindly share your opinion in the comments section below.
Don’t forget to LIKE, SHARE, and FOLLOW Naija Politics for more latest and most interesting stories.