CARE Urges Reversal of Electricity Tariff Hike, Demands End to Multi-Tier Billing System in Nigeria

In a move to address growing concerns over electricity costs, the Coalition for Affordable and Reliable Energy (CARE) has called on the Nigerian government to reverse the recent hike in electricity tariffs. 

The coalition is also pushing for the abolition of the multi-tiered billing band system, which they argue unfairly burdens lower-income households.

According to CARE, the latest increase in tariffs, coupled with the complex banding system, has made electricity costs unaffordable for millions of Nigerians.

 The group claims that the multi-tiered billing system, which assigns different electricity rates to consumers based on their consumption levels and location, disproportionately affects those in rural and underserved areas.

"We believe that electricity should be both affordable and accessible to all Nigerians, regardless of their income or location," CARE said in a public statement. 

"The current system not only widens the gap between the rich and poor but also limits economic growth in regions that desperately need access to reliable power."

CARE further argued that the tariff hike comes at a time when many Nigerians are already grappling with rising inflation and economic hardship.

 They emphasized the need for government intervention to protect vulnerable citizens from energy poverty and called for an overhaul of the electricity pricing structure.

The coalition proposed a single-tier pricing system that would simplify billing and ensure fairness across all regions. 

They urged the government to take immediate action to review the electricity policies, warning that failure to address these concerns could lead to widespread protests and further economic instability.

In response, government officials have promised to review the situation, with some suggesting that reforms could be on the horizon. 

However, no definitive plans have been announced yet. Meanwhile, the public continues to voice their frustration over increasing power costs and unreliable supply, adding pressure on the government to act swiftly. 

As the debate over electricity tariffs heats up, all eyes are on the Nigerian government to see whether it will prioritize consumer welfare or stick with the current system.