NLC Condemns FG’s N8bn Electricity Bill Sensitisation Fund as Misplaced and Wasteful
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has criticised the Federal Government’s proposal to allocate N8 billion for a sensitisation campaign on electricity bill payments, describing it as an unnecessary and insensitive expenditure amid ongoing power sector challenges and economic hardships.
The allocation, announced by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, during the presentation of the 2025 budget, has drawn widespread condemnation, with critics highlighting persistent power grid failures, exorbitant tariffs, and neglected infrastructure.
Joe Ajaero, President of the NLC, issued a statement on Tuesday decrying the Ministry of Power’s priorities. He emphasised that the Transmission Company of Nigeria owes over N200 billion to contractors while the power sector remains riddled with inefficiencies.
“Proposing N8 billion to sensitise Nigerians already burdened with skyrocketing electricity tariffs is a slap in the face of hardworking citizens,” Ajaero said.
Governance Criticised for Misplaced Priorities
Ajaero questioned the rationale of spending billions to educate Nigerians on paying bills to private companies while failing to address power supply issues. He described the move as “arrogant and insensitive,” pointing out that millions of Nigerians are struggling with poverty and inflation.
“Instead of ensuring steady electricity, they want to teach us how to pay for darkness. Governance should be about reducing hardship, not compounding it,” he added.
The NLC president also criticised the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), accusing it of failing in its regulatory role. He highlighted a recent incident where a managing director of a distribution company was allegedly dismissed for whistleblowing, with no intervention from NERC.
“We have a regulator that punishes whistleblowing rather than protecting transparency,” Ajaero noted, demanding a full audit of the power sector’s finances and budget to uncover potential mismanagement.
Public Outrage and Calls for Accountability
The proposed fund has sparked outrage among Nigerians, with many calling the Ministry of Power’s priorities misplaced. Critics argue that stabilising the national grid and expanding electricity access should take precedence over costly campaigns.
Under the current administration, grid collapses have reportedly occurred more frequently than under previous governments, further eroding public trust in the power sector’s management.
Labour leaders and advocacy groups have urged the National Assembly to reject the N8 billion proposal and hold officials accountable for the sector’s failings.
“Sensitisation campaigns should not cost a fraction of this amount, especially when schools are underfunded, hospitals lack basic equipment, and infrastructure is in disrepair,” Ajaero stressed.
Broader Concerns Over Governance
The controversy highlights broader concerns about governance and financial priorities in Nigeria. Citizens increasingly question the government’s commitment to addressing pressing issues such as unemployment, inflation, and access to basic services.
“As the nation awaits the National Assembly’s decision, citizens and advocacy groups are closely monitoring developments and preparing to push back against perceived misgovernance,” Ajaero concluded.
The NLC’s criticism underscores the growing frustration among Nigerians over what many see as wasteful spending in the face of widespread socio-economic challenges.
