Don’t approve increase in electricity tariff, Reps tell NERC

Don’t approve in increase in electricity tariff, Reps tell NERC

The House of Representatives on Thursday asked the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) not to approve the proposed increase in electricity tariffs.

The lawmakers passed the resolution during a plenary, following the adoption of a motion sponsored by Sani Madaki, a member of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) from Kano.

There have been reports that electricity tariffs will be increased by 40 per cent due to rising petrol prices.

The proposed increase was said to be contingent on the 2022 multi-year tariff order (MYTO), which is due for a bi-annual review this month.

Leading the debate on the motion, Madaki said there is “widespread apprehension” in the country over the planned introduction of a new electricity tariff regime by distribution companies (DisCos).

The lawmaker, citing the current economic situation, said President Tinubu’s government came to power “to bring succour to the people”.

He added that the hike in electricity tariff would increase the suffering of Nigerians.

Babajimi Benson from Lagos said there was a “corresponding need” to bring the GenCos and DisCos together for a discussion with NERC on the planned hike in electricity tariffs.

“FX has gone up, NERC and DisCos should be brought on board instead of (telling them) don’t increase the price,” Benson said.