Increase of electricity tariff unacceptable, says reps’ minority leader

Ndudi Elumelu, minority leader of the house of representatives, says the proposed increase of electricity tariff in the country is unacceptable.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) had announced a review of the multi-year tariff order (MYTO) 2015 and the minimum remittance order (MRO).

Following the directive from NERC, electricity distribution companies (DisCos) said from April 11, they  will adjust their tariffs upwards.

In a statement on Thursday, Elumelu asked NERC to “end all contemplation in that direction”.

The minority leader said increase in electricity tariff would further “aggravate the economic situation in the country”.

“Nigerians are currently passing through grave economic stress and anything that would aggravate the situation such as an increase in electricity tariff is completely unacceptable,” Elumelu said.

“Electricity is pivotal to the economic and social lives of Nigerians and NERC should rather seek ways of making power affordable and available to Nigerians, in line with its establishment laws, instead of increase in tariff.”

The lawmaker said the minority caucus is committed to protecting the interest of Nigerians by monitoring prevailing tariff on electricity as well as levies on other essential services in the country.

He also urged all members of the caucus in relevant committees to intensify their oversight functions in the interest of Nigerians.