The Federal Government has appealed to the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) not to embark on strike action following the recent increase in electricity tariffs.
The NUEE had threatened to withdraw its services if the government did not reverse its decision to remove the subsidy on the tariff payable by Band A customers.
The National President of the NUEE, Adebiyi Adeyeye, reiterated the union’s stance, stating that the supply of 20 hours of electricity is not feasible with the current infrastructure. He expressed concern that the tariff hike would lead to confrontations between staff and customers, as many areas do not receive the promised 20 hours of power supply.
Adeyeye emphasized that the union has not yet issued an ultimatum on strike action but is advising the government to address the issue before the union decides to withdraw its services.
He highlighted the challenges faced by union members, including attacks from customers and unrealistic targets set by distribution companies.
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The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, urged the union not to proceed with the strike, emphasizing that the government is working to improve the power supply in Nigeria for the benefit of all citizens.
He appealed to the union to understand the reasons behind the tariff hike and assured them that it would ultimately benefit the economy and create jobs.
The union insists that the tariff hike is unjustifiable and is calling on the government to reconsider its decision.
However, the government is urging the union to be patient and work together to resolve the challenges facing the power sector.