House of Representatives has faulted ongoing moves by distribution companies (DisCos) to hike electricity tariff in the country.
Adopting a motion sponsored by Aliyu Sani Madaki at a plenary chaired by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, the House observed that the proposed increase is coming despite inability of the operators to meet the threshold of supplying, at least, 5,000 megawatts per year, after signing a contract with the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
The House said it was most inappropriate and insensitive to come up with a price increase at a time many Nigerians are yet to come to terms with increase in petrol prices.
The House contended that at this time, the proposed increment is not in the best interest of the average Nigerian. It noted that the decision amounts to exploitation of citizens, contrary to Section 17 (2) (d) of the Constitution, which states:”Exploitation of human resources in any form whatsoever, for reasons other than the good of community, should be prevented.”
The House, therefore, urged NERC not to approve any increase in electricity tariff, just as it mandated its Committee on Power (when constituted) to interface with NERC, with a view to finding a common ground for addressing the proposed hike.
