The Peoples Redemption Party, PRP has condemned in very strong terms, the increase in the electricity tariff paid by Band A customers from N68/KWh to N225/kWh by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, describing it as a cynically cruel blow on Nigerians, reports Vanguard.
In a statement today by PRP Acting National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Muhammed Ishaq, he said that action is not acceptable against the backdrop that the drastic hike was coming on the heels of the removal of fuel subsidies and massive devaluation of the Naira, which have brought increases in costs of living and resultant hardship to the populace, adding that it bring additional burden on the already struggling Nigerians.
According to Ishaq, the PRP is calling on the government to as a matter of urgency, reconsider this decision and prioritize the well-being of its citizens, just as the party urged the authorities to explore alternative solutions that will not further exacerbate the suffering of Nigerians.
The statement reads, “The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has read the report of the proposed 300% increase in electricity tariffs and strongly condemns same as this will result in the power companies raising prices of electricity from N68 to N200 per kilowatt-hour.
This drastic hike, coming on the heels of the removal of fuel subsidies and massive devaluation of the Naira, which have brought increases in costs of living and resultant hardship to the populace, is an unconscionable burden on the already struggling Nigerian populace.
“As a party that champions the welfare of the people, we express our deep concern and share the shock felt by millions of Nigerians who are grappling with the harsh realities of survival. This decision by the government is not only insensitive but also demonstrates a blatant disregard for the plight of the citizens.
“The removal of fuel subsidies has already made life unbearable for Nigerians, and the additional burden of a 300% increase in electricity tariffs is a merciless and ruthless policy at a time when the majority of the population is struggling to meet their basic needs like food. It is unimaginable that the government would impose such life-frustrating policies on a nation that is already on its knees.
“The PRP calls on the government to reconsider this decision and prioritize the well-being of its citizens. We urge the authorities to explore alternative solutions that will not further exacerbate the suffering of Nigerians. Government should urgently consider consider seriously investing in the exploration and expansion of alternative renewable sources of electricity supply such as solar, bio gas, wind, etc which have the potential of providing cheap and sustainable electric energy to Nigerians for their domestic, economic and industrial needs. The current economic situation demands empathy, understanding, and a collective effort to uplift the people, not policies that push them deeper into hardship.
“In addition to the evident detrimental effects that a 300 percent surge in electricity bills would impose on Nigerians, it is crucial to acknowledge the substantial impact it would have on medium and small enterprises, as well as the informal sector. This significant hike in energy costs could potentially cripple these vital components of our economy, leading to potential job losses and hindering overall growth and development.
“Finally, we stand in solidarity with the millions of Nigerians who are affected by these policies and pledge to continue advocating for their rights and interests. The PRP remains committed to working towards a better future for all Nigerians, where basic necessities like food, electricity and fuel are accessible and affordable.”
