The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has expressed deep concern and disappointment over the recent decision by the federal government to sharply increase electricity tariffs in Nigeria.
They assert that this move demonstrates a complete disregard for the well-being and welfare of the Nigerian people.
In a statement issued by the Director of Publicity and Advocacy of the Northern Elders Forum, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, on Thursday, the NEF acknowledges that this drastic hike in electricity tariffs will impose a significant negative impact on the already struggling population, further widening the gap between the rich and the poor.
“The breakdown of the new tariffs reveals an alarming burden that the average Nigerian will face in affording electricity on a daily basis,” stated NEF.
ALSO READ: Stakeholders condemn 300% increase in electricity tariffs
According to NEF, under the new tariff plan, 24 hours of electricity per day will cost a staggering N5,400, amounting to an unbearable monthly total of N162,000 and an astounding yearly total of N1,971,000.
“These exorbitant amounts are simply unaffordable for the majority of Nigerians, who are already grappling with economic hardship and trying to make ends meet,” NEF emphasized.
“By implementing such exorbitant electricity tariffs, the government is effectively perpetuating a form of economic oppression that will only serve to widen the gap between the rich and the poor in Nigeria. It is imperative that this act of exploitation be firmly rejected and not be allowed to stand unchallenged,” NEF said.
The statement further highlighted that the decision to enforce these tariffs without considering the impact on the average citizen is not only callous but also short-sighted.
“The resulting consequences could potentially lead to internal security threats as the disparity between the haves and the have-nots becomes more pronounced.”
ALSO READ: NERC increases electricity tariff on band A customers
“The NEF strongly believes that this decision was made without carefully considering the economic realities faced by the majority of Nigerians and it highlights the government’s lack of empathy towards its citizens.”
“Instead of implementing policies that would alleviate the suffering of the people, the government has chosen to further exploit them. This introduction of exorbitant electricity tariffs is not only unjust but also a clear indication of the disconnect between the government and the people they are meant to serve. It is a blatant display of the government’s blatant disregard for the well-being of its citizens and a betrayal of the trust placed in them.”
“The NEF calls on the government to immediately reconsider this ill-conceived decision and take into account the dire economic situation faced by the majority of Nigerians. Nigerians must now rise up and demand accountability from their leaders, reminding them that their primary duty is to serve the people, not exploit them for personal gain,” NEF added.
