Nigeria finds itself at the center of controversy following a government decision to restructure the electricity pricing system. The measure, announced at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday April 3, provoked mixed reactions among Nigerians, sparking debates over its implications for consumers and the economy.
According to Pulse Nigeria, the government has announced the complete removal of the electricity subsidy previously provided to Category A customers, representing about 15% of all electricity users nationwide. As a result, their electricity bill will increase significantly, starting from the day of the announcement.
The move provoked much disapproval from stakeholders such as manufacturers, labor unions and civil society groups.
Benson Upah, information officer at NLC headquarters, said: “The government’s decision is not only insensitive, but also cruel. It further impoverishes consumers, especially workers whose wages are fixed and insufficient.”
He added that the labor union would formulate a response to this “disruptive” policy after discussions with the relevant bodies within the organization.
Similarly, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar disapproved of the new electricity pricing, saying the move further aggravates the plight of Nigerians. On his social media account, Atiku said: “The increase in electricity tariffs will create more difficulties for citizens, while inflationary pressures are exacerbated.”
In contrast, Labor Party standard-bearer Peter Obi approved the new pricing but insisted it remain within the category of Band A customers who are wealthy enough to afford it. He argued that the revenue generated could be used to subsidize electricity rates for vulnerable and poor Nigerians.
Meanwhile, Nigerians from various parts of the country have given their views on the new electricity pricing and the state of electricity in their respective areas.
Kumashe Yaakugh (Gwarimpa, Abuja) believes that the recent increase in electricity tariffs is unwelcome, compounding the difficulties already faced across the country. He believes a gradual implementation would have been more appropriate, as this sudden 300% increase will bring more economic challenges, especially for already struggling small entrepreneurs.
Abdulsalam Mahmud (Minna, Niger State) calls recent increase in electricity tariffs the height of insensitivity to the plight of suffering Nigerians. He fears that this will be the straw that breaks the camel’s back, in the face of the government’s Machiavellian economic policies which only worsen their precarious living conditions.
Isah Ismail (Minna, Niger State) says the increase in electricity tariffs is totally inappropriate, adding to the suffering of Nigerians. He points out that electricity in parts of Niger is subject to frequent interruptions, with estimated billings. This situation will negatively impact them.
Moshood Isah (Nasarawa LGA, Kano State) points out that the current hot climate in Kano requires reliable and affordable power supply to bring relief to residents. He notes that electricity distribution in his region is intermittent, especially since the announcement of an increase in electricity rates for Band A customers.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the new electricity pricing in Nigeria illustrates the concerns of Nigerians about the economic challenges they face. The issue of electricity prices and the quality of electricity supply raises legitimate concerns among the population, requiring thoughtful and equitable measures from the authorities to meet the needs of the most vulnerable.