The organized labor in Bayelsa State has strongly opposed the recent increase in electricity tariffs implemented by the Nigerian Government.
What They Are Saying:
During a joint protest and picketing of the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) office in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, the State NLC Chairman, Comrade Simon Barnabas, called for an immediate reversal of the tariff hike. He expressed concern over the poor power supply despite the increased tariffs and emphasized the need for the government to prioritize the welfare of Nigerians.
Comrade Julius Laye, the Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Bayelsa State, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the unfairness of introducing additional taxes amid the country’s economic challenges. He urged the government to empathize with the plight of Nigerians and alleviate their burden by reconsidering these policies.
He said: “We are very hopeful that we have government that is sensitive and will yield to our demands, and know the feeling of Nigerians that another tax is not the best way to go on Nigerians who are already suffering.
“Mr President must feel the feelings of Nigerians, allow Nigerians breath, by making sure that these taxes do not come into existence. If you take the workers who are earning N30,000 as minimum wage to increase the electricity tariff, what about transport to work, what about people who are not working for government?
“Nigerians should have constance electricity, but reverse is the case, we are buying fuel, we are buying diesel. Where will the people get money to pay for all these bills and also take care of the hike in tariffs? Please, let Nigerians breathe.”
Why It Matters:
The economic hardships facing Nigerians have exacerbated the challenges of coping with the severe economic crisis. Despite these difficulties, the implementation of policies such as electricity tariff hikes has further burdened the average Nigerian, leading to nationwide protests demanding their reversal. These policies, including the electricity tariff hike, have significantly impacted the livelihoods of Nigerians across the country.
Bottom Line:
The efforts of the NLC and TUC aim to alleviate the economic strain on Nigerians amidst the ongoing economic crisis. By advocating for policy reversals and prioritizing the welfare of Nigerians, these labor unions seek to empower citizens to navigate the challenging economic landscape. The anticipated impact of these efforts resonates with all Nigerians who are hopeful for relief from the economic burdens they face.
