By Ken Chiwendu
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) will picket the office of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and distribution companies (DisCos)’s premises nationwide on Monday over the hike in electricity tariff, according to a joint statement by the two unions.
In the statement signed by NLC’s Ag General Secretary,Chris Uyot and TUC Counterpart,Anka Hassan, the union said that the action will take place nationwide simultaneously.
“We write to inform you of the picketing action scheduled to take place in the offices of the NERC and Electricity Distribution companies (DISCOS) in all states, including the FCT,” the unions
“The action will jointly take place on Monday, 13th of May, 2024 nationwide simultaneously. Therefore, the two Labour centres are directed to work together to carry out this important action. While counting on your usual cooperation, kindly accept the assurances of our goodwill and highest regards.” the statement said.
NERC had reviewed the tariff amid public outcry hiking the price for band A customers but the Labour unions insist on picketing NERC and DisCos in their office.
But while the increase in tariff has met with outrage, the Minister of Power,Asebayo Adelabu argued that the review of tariff was legal stating that the Electricity Act 2023 provides for a review of tariffs twice a year.
Moved by the outcry,the House of Representatives asked NERC to suspend the implementation of the process.
