Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has stated that the House of Representatives will debate the propriety of the recent increase in electricity tariffs when plenary resumes later this month.
Electricity tariffs in Nigeria have long been a contentious issue, plagued by inconsistencies, inefficiencies, and controversies. The need for a sustainable and equitable pricing mechanism has been underscored by various stakeholders, including consumers, policymakers, and industry players. However, the recent announcement of a 300 percent increase in tariffs, particularly for Band A customers, has escalated tensions and amplified the urgency for reform.
Band Customers, characterized by high consumption levels and often comprising commercial and industrial entities, are expected to bear the brunt of this exorbitant hike. Such a drastic increase in tariffs threatens to exacerbate the already challenging operating environment for businesses and could potentially lead to job losses, reduced competitiveness, and economic downturns.
It was reported that the recent 300 percent increase in electricity tariffs for Band A customers has raised concerns across the country.
Speaking virtually on the special edition of “Ben Kalu’s Mandate,” a call-in radio programme on FLO FM in Umuahia, Abia State, on Monday, Kalu said the parliament, in response to Nigerians’ calls for its intervention in the matter, would take a win-win approach to resolving the issue.
In a statement, his spokesman, Livinus Nwabughiogu, disclosed that Kalu’s reaction followed an inquiry from a call-in listener, Okafor Chinedum, from Umuahia, who sought to know the position of the parliament on the matter.
The statement quoted Kalu as saying: “It’s a general problem. While I was on my holidays, one of the things I was bothered with was a letter sent to me by the majority leader of the house on the need for us to intervene in a matter involving the University of Ibadan Teaching Hospital (UITH) power supply. They were disconnected because of this hike and didn’t have the money to pay. We said it’s an essential service. Something should be done about it while we look at other details.”
The announcement by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu signals a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over electricity tariffs in Nigeria. As the House of Representatives prepares to convene and deliberate on this critical issue, it is imperative that all stakeholders engage constructively and contribute towards finding sustainable solutions that balance the interests of consumers, businesses, and the broader economy.
While the road ahead may be fraught with challenges and complexities, it is essential to remain steadfast in the pursuit of a fair, efficient, and accessible electricity sector that meets the needs of all Nigerians. Through collaboration, dialogue, and collective action, we can overcome the obstacles that hinder progress and pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous future.
The commitment of the House of Representatives to intervene in the electricity tariff hike reflects a broader commitment to uphold the principles of democracy, accountability, and social justice. By championing the interests of the people and fostering inclusive governance, we can build a stronger and more resilient society where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.
