NANS berates FG over electricity tariff hike

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has flayed the Federal Government for increasing the electricity tariff at a time when Nigerians are going through pain and suffering because of economic hardships.

Coordinator, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Zone C, Comrade Daniel Friday Egga, reacting to the development in a statement on Thursday in Abuja, said the increment was a clear lack of concern of the government for the well-being of the masses.

He wondered why the Federal Government would choose to impoverish the people in order to make money, saying, “this move demonstrates a clear prioritization of profit over the welfare of Nigerian citizens, burdening them with unjustified costs and further exacerbating their already challenging conditions”.

Egga noted that the government’s decision to escalate electricity tariffs has sparked outrage among the populace, who are already grappling with numerous economic challenges.

He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that the astronomical increase in electricity tariff is immediate reverse.

Part of the statement read: “It is inconceivable that the government would even consider placing an additional burden on the citizens, especially when the majority of Nigerian households already suffer from unreliable power supply and high unemployment rates.

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“It is utterly disappointing to witness the government prioritize the interests of electricity companies at the expense of the people they are obligated to serve.

“This decision inherently disregards the severe socio-economic inequalities that exist in Nigeria, further widening the already gaping divide between the privileged few and the marginalized masses.

“The increase in electricity tariffs will inevitably take a toll on the most vulnerable members of society, pushing them further into poverty and hindering their access to basic necessities such as healthcare and education.

“This regressive action reflects a lack of empathy, compassion, and understanding of the daily struggles endured by ordinary Nigerians.

“Furthermore, the timing of this increase is deeply concerning, as it comes at a time when the country is grappling with the debilitating effects of the dwindling economy.

“This decision demonstrates a complete disregard for the plight of citizens who have been severely impacted by the economic crises and are already struggling to meet their basic needs.

“It is the responsibility of the Nigerian government to protect the interests of its citizens and ensure their overall well-being. Instead, this decision exposes a gross negligence of duty towards the very people who entrusted them with power.

“The government must be reminded that its primary role is to create an enabling environment for the prosperity and welfare of its citizens, not to prioritize the financial interests of powerful entities.

“We, therefore, call on the Federal government to reconsider this unjust increase in electricity tariffs immediately.

“The government should prioritize the needs of the masses and focus on providing sustainable and accessible energy solutions, rather than perpetuating a system that favors profit over people.

“As concerned citizens, it is our duty to hold our elected officials accountable for their actions and demand transparency and fairness. We stand in solidarity with the Nigerian people and urge the government to listen to their legitimate demands for a better future,” NANS stated.