APC NWC Member Criticizes Electricity Tariff Hike, Alleges Influence of Gencos and Discos Owners.
Nze Chidi Duru, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Working Committee (NWC), has launched a scathing attack on the recent surge in electricity tariffs, attributing the hike to the undue influence of powerful stakeholders associated with Generating Companies (Gencos) and Distribution Companies (Discos).
Duru, who serves as the Deputy National Organising Secretary of the APC, raised concerns about the influence wielded by these influential figures, alleging that they effectively control regulatory bodies. In a statement released in Abuja on Friday, Duru criticized the tariff hike and expressed skepticism regarding the promised 20-hour power supply guarantee.
The statement called for greater consultation with stakeholders affected by the tariff increase, emphasizing the importance of their input in shaping expectations from the Discos amidst the tariff adjustment. Duru accused the influential individuals behind the Gencos and Discos of regulating the regulators, questioning the transparency and accountability of the privatization process initiated in 2013.
Duru highlighted concerns over the operational efficiency of the privatized entities, alleging that they have drained the national economy rather than contributing to its growth. He pointed out the substantial financial intervention by the Federal Government to sustain the operations of Gencos and Discos, amounting to over N3 trillion.
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Regarding the tariff hike, Duru criticized the unilateral decision by the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), raising questions about the enforcement of the promised 20-hour power supply and the sanctions for non-compliance by Discos.
The statement stressed the need for transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement in addressing the challenges facing the electricity sector. Duru called for a comprehensive review of the tariff hike and urged regulatory bodies to prioritize the interests of consumers and ensure fair and equitable electricity supply across the nation.
