The house of representatives urges NERC not to approve the proposed electricity tariff increase.
They passed the resolution following a motion by Sani Madaki from Kano.
Reports indicated a 40% tariff increase due to rising petrol prices, based on the 2022 MYTO review.
Madaki expressed concern over the planned tariff regime, citing the current economic situation, and the need to alleviate Nigerians’ suffering.
Babajimi Benson suggested discussions with GenCos, DisCos, and NERC to address the factors behind the tariff hike.
“FX has gone up, NERC and DisCos should be brought on board instead of (telling them) don’t increase the price,” Benson said.
Bamidele Salami from Osun supports Benson’s stance, emphasizing the need to alleviate hardship without stifling businesses.
The electricity act drives private sector involvement, leading to the proposed increase.
“We have to find a way to ensure the sector is not suffocated by regulation so that we don’t kill the industry and investment,” he said.
Salami also said rather than asking for the suspension of the proposed tariff increase, the government should focus on issues such as increasing the minimum wage and others.
“A privatised sector cannot be deeply regulated,” he said.
Ali Isa from Gombe agrees, stating citizens are already suffering due to the petrol subsidy removal.
The motion passed by voice vote.