Nigeria’s Parliament Orders Reverse of Electricity Tariff Hike for Band A Customers
The Nigerian House of Representatives has ordered the reversal of a recent tariff hike for Band A electricity customers, following the adoption of a report presented by the House Committee on Power. The committee, chaired by Victor Nwokolo, argued that the new tariff was unaffordable for many Nigerians.
The tariff hike, which took effect in April, required Band A customers to pay N225 per kilowatt. According to the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), the increased tariff was aimed at providing at least 20 hours of power supply per day to subscribers. However, the decision generated negative reactions from the public.
The committee recommended a return to the status quo, and its recommendations were adopted by the Committee of the Whole. The House also resolved to conduct further investigations into the tariff hike. NERC Vice Chairman Musliu Oseni explained that the commission has issued an order, titled the April supplementary order, allowing a 235 kilowatt per hour tariff.
The move to reverse the tariff hike comes amid widespread discontent among Nigerians over the country’s power supply situation. Many citizens have expressed frustration over frequent power outages and high electricity bills.
The decision by the Nigerian Parliament sets a significant precedent in the country’s electricity sector, as it demonstrates a willingness to listen to public concerns and make necessary adjustments to policies. As the government continues to navigate the complex issues surrounding Nigeria’s power supply, this move could potentially have far-reaching implications for the sector.
