by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) on Monday took to streets in the City of Jos, in protest, disrupting operations and leaving staff of Jos Electricity Distribution Office (JED) stranded.
This was a compelling demonstration against the recent surge in electricity tariffs imposed by the federal government.
Our correspondent reports that, JED Headquarters in Jos was made inaccessible, under lock-and-key, by the protesting union members.
Speaking to newsmen in Jos, the Plateau State Chairman of NLC, Eugene Manji, said, “We have been directed from our national headquarters of NLC to ensure that we comply with the directives that all the distribution offices across the nation are locked. So, that’s why we are here to picket that of the Plateau State,” he stated.
He stressed that, “All offices, not just this one you are seeing, we have sent our members to other places, and some have gone to Vom to ensure that there is compliance; this is applicable in all the other offices.
“We are here to ensure total compliance; that’s why we locked the offices, adding that, the protest was for the whole day, while the state chapter of NLC will report back to the headquarters.
“The surge in electricity tariffs, implemented by the federal government, has triggered a wave of dissent among consumers and industry players alike, citing concerns over affordability and equitable access to essential services,” he stated.
The protest at the JED office in Jos by NLC epitomizes the mounting pressure faced by utility companies grappling with the repercussions of tariff hikes, as they navigate the delicate balance between public welfare and operational sustainability.
The ongoing protest against the federal government’s electricity tariff hike has equally attracted voices of discontent resonating among staff at the Jos Electricity Distribution (JED) office. Even though, they pleaded anonymity, they however expressed their frustrations.
“We feel betrayed by the sudden surge in tariffs,” laments a senior technician at the JED Headquarters, who pleaded anonymity, but echoing the sentiments shared by many of his colleagues.
A Customer Service representative (who also pleaded anonymity) expressed frustration, stating, “The increase in tariffs places an undue burden on consumers already struggling to make ends meet.
“We stand in solidarity with the union’s stance against unjust tariff hikes,” declares an administrative assistant, emphasizing the collective resolve among staff to challenge government policies perceived as detrimental to the public interest.
Amidst the chaos, a maintenance technician highlights the ripple effects of the tariff hike, saying, “It’s not just about us; it’s about the communities we serve, who will bear the brunt of these exorbitant rates.”
The protest at the JED office by NLC serves as a reminder of the human cost behind (albeit harsh) policy decisions.