Trade Unions Threatens Strike After Increase In Electricity Tariff

By Oluchi Ihediuche

The Nigerian Trade Union Congress has issued a stern warning, to the Federal Government to revert to old electricity tariff or face the consequences of its action.

This was contained in a statement by the TUC President, Quadri Olaleye, and the Secretary-General, Musa Lawal, titled, ‘Electricity hike: Another betrayal of trust’.

It described the federal government decision as ‘wicked’ and ‘another betrayal of trust’ coming in the middle of ongoing negotiations by the FG and the organised labour on the November 1, 2020 hike.

“Does it mean there is no other way this government can creatively generate revenue? It has become obvious that the outrages from the organised labour and the masses and the series of negotiations we had with the government were just cosmetic and hypocritical.

“How can the government go-ahead with increase in tariffs again when we have not resolved the one done earlier? This is preposterous, ridiculous and sheer wickedness.”

“There is so much deceit and laziness in the system; there is hardly any promise made that they have followed through.

“why this government espouses unfriendly policies that are capable of crippling the economy.”

The congress noted that many Nigerians are still struggling to find their feet after the pandemic and the hike may bring about increase in criminal activities

“The economy was struggling before the outbreak of the pandemic and we thought it wise not to worsen our situation. The sacrifice means nothing to these people, who forced us to tighten our belt while they loosened theirs.

“Darkness enhances criminal activities and now they have chosen to keep us in the darkness thinking their high fences will save them. We call on the government to be responsible for once. Nigerians will like to know what we gained from border closures. Insecurity did not stop, neither did it stop the smuggling of rice and others.”