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HoR demand a halt on tariff increase
- NERC to implement minor tariff review in June
- Asks NERC to stop the transfer of liabilities
The Nigerian House of Representatives has rejected the planned implementation of the Minor Review of electricity tariffs carried out by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). The House Committees on Power, Poverty Alleviation and Labour, Employment and Productivity have mandated the NERC to suspend the implementation.
House of Representatives member, Aniekan Umanah stated that the Distribution Companies (DisCos) cannot request for a tariff increment despite poor service delivery to consumers. He added that despite recent tariff increases, Nigerians have not enjoyed an improved quality of supply. “Poor services by the DisCos, have impacted negatively on the socio-economic growth of the country” he said.
In another motion moved by Abiodun Shoyinka, the member representing Surulere II noted the increase in customer complaints on the transfer of liabilities to customers. “the Distribution Companies, which are responsible for the collection of payments for services rendered to consumers, allow unpaid bills to accumulate, do not follow the laydown principles and guidelines by Regulatory Authorities towards unpaid bills and disconnection of non paying customers” he said.
In response to the motion, the House mandated “the Committee on Power to engage the Distribution Companies and other relevant Regulatory Agencies to find a lasting solution and report within four weeks”.