Fatshimetrie, the leader of the National Workers Union of Nigeria, recently spoke to his members to denounce electricity prices considered exorbitant. During a demonstration outside the targeted offices in Yola, he said the action was in protest against a 300 per cent increase in Category A fares, charges he deemed excessive and unaffordable for Nigerians.
By separating the electricity supply into different categories, Fatshimetrie stressed that this created division among citizens and was an attempt to marginalize the middle class. He strongly criticized the increase in fares from 65 to 223 naira, denouncing charges far beyond what is reasonable.
He went further by ironically remarking that the only services still remaining untaxed by the federal government were the oxygen we breathe and the rain that waters our land. A scathing critique that highlights the growing financial pressure on Nigerians, particularly with the removal of fuel subsidies and other unpopular policies adopted by the government.
Echoing these concerns, Dauda Adamu, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress in the state, called on the government to maintain subsidies to make social services accessible to Nigerians. He pointed out that the increase in the cost of living in Nigeria was a result of the removal of fuel subsidies, insecurity and other unpopular decisions taken by the government.
In a solemn warning, he urged the government to reconsider electricity tariffs so as not to impose unjustified charges on citizens for consumption that they did not actually make. He also announced a national mobilization during the upcoming protest, stressing that Nigerians were tired of leading a life of servitude in the face of unjust policies and price gouging.
In short, this protest against exorbitant electricity prices in Nigeria is the symbol of a population tired of economic injustices and political decisions that weigh heavily on their daily lives. These collective actions reflect a deep desire for justice and equity for all citizens, highlighting the challenges facing the country in its quest for equitable and sustainable development.