The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has opposed the recent decision by President Bola Tinubu-led government to raise electricity tariffs in the country, denouncing it as a reckless move that disregards the welfare of Nigerians.
In a statement issued by its spokesman, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, the NEF expressed concern that the substantial hike in electricity tariffs would further burden the already struggling populace, widening the gap between the rich and the poor.
The forum called on the federal government to reconsider an ill-conceived decision, considering most Nigerians’ dire economic conditions.
NEF’s reaction follows the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) ‘s announcement of an increase in electricity tariffs for Band A customers, who receive 20 hours of daily electricity supply.
According to NEF, the breakdown of the new tariff structure reveals an alarming financial strain that ordinary Nigerians would endure to afford electricity, with a monthly total reaching an exorbitant N162,000 for 24-hour supply.
According to the statement, such burdensome tariffs would deepen economic hardships for many Nigerians.
NEF criticized the government for implementing these tariffs without considering their impact on citizens, portraying a lack of empathy and a disconnect between the government and the people.
The forum called on Nigerians to demand accountability from their leaders, stressing that the government’s primary duty is to serve the people, not exploit them for personal gain.
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