The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly opposed the Federal Government’s plans to regularize electricity tariffs for customers in Bands A, B, and C. In a communique released following the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Yola, Adamawa State, the union vowed to initiate mass protests across Nigeria if the government continues with its proposed changes.

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, recently announced that consumers in lower bands would be upgraded to Band A, a move the NLC claims is a “forceful migration” that will lead to increased financial burdens on citizens. NLC General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja condemned the actions of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) as a sham, arguing that the reclassification of electricity consumers is a tactic to impose unjustified tariffs under the guise of service improvement.

Ugboaja described this move as “economic violence” against the working class. The NLC warned that any further attempts to increase electricity tariffs would meet with significant resistance. “The Congress resolves to immediately mobilise for a nationwide protest should the Ministry of Power and NERC proceed with their exploitative plan,” Ugboaja stated.

Nigeria has long struggled with energy challenges, including inconsistent power supply, which hampers productivity. The NLC’s firm stance reflects growing frustration among citizens facing rising costs of living amid stagnant wages and inflation.