The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has condemned the administration of President Bola Tinubu, accusing it of implementing policies that are detrimental to the populace. The NEF expressed deep concern over the recent surge in electricity tariffs, describing it as reckless and a blatant disregard for the welfare of Nigerians.
The Federal Government, through the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), approved a staggering 300 per cent increase in electricity tariffs for select consumers on April 3rd. This move, disclosed by NERC’s Vice Chairman, Musiliu Oseni, in Abuja, has drawn sharp criticism from the NEF.
Abdulazeez Sulaiman, the NEF’s Director of Publicity and Advocacy, emphasized in a statement that the tariff hike would severely impact the already struggling population, widening the gap between the affluent and the impoverished in Nigeria.
The NEF argued that by enforcing such exorbitant electricity tariffs, the government is perpetuating economic oppression, further marginalizing the less privileged. The forum expressed dismay at the government’s apparent lack of empathy and disconnect from the economic realities faced by most Nigerians.
The statement underscored the need for the public to vehemently oppose this exploitative action and demand accountability from the government. The NEF urged the government to reconsider its decision, emphasizing that the primary duty of leaders is to serve the people, not exploit them for personal gain.