In a fervent address to the Nigerian Senate, Senator Ali Ndume vehemently criticized the recent hike in electricity tariffs and directed sharp rebukes at Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu. Senator Ndume accused the minister of overseeing a discriminatory electricity supply policy, which he claimed violates the constitutional rights of Nigerians.
The contentious hike has sparked widespread discontent across the country, with many citizens struggling to cope with the increased financial burden. Senator Ndume’s outburst reflected the growing frustration among Nigerians, particularly regarding the uneven distribution of electricity.
“Why should one Nigerian get 20 hours of electricity supply while another gets only 5 hours?” Ndume questioned. He argued that such disparities are not only unfair but also unconstitutional, suggesting that the current policy discriminates against certain regions and communities. “It is a violation of our constitution to discriminate on who gets more supply and who doesn’t,” he added, emphasizing the need for equitable distribution of resources.
Senator Ndume’s comments come at a critical time as Nigeria continues to grapple with chronic power shortages and infrastructure challenges. The senator called for immediate action to address the imbalance and ensure that all Nigerians receive a fair share of electricity supply. He urged the government to reconsider the tariff hike, arguing that it exacerbates the struggles of those already facing limited access to electricity.
The Senate has since called for a thorough review of the electricity supply policies and urged the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to provide a detailed explanation for the disparities. The issue is expected to dominate discussions in the coming weeks as the government seeks to address the growing outcry and find a balanced solution.
Senator Ndume’s impassioned speech has undoubtedly brought the issue to the forefront of national debate, highlighting the urgent need for reforms in Nigeria’s power sector. As the country watches closely, the government’s next steps will be crucial in determining the future of electricity distribution and tariff policies in Nigeria.