Joe Igbokwe, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has raised concerns over the skyrocketing cost of electricity in Nigeria, particularly for consumers placed under the Band A tariff category.
In April 2024, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) approved a 300 percent hike in electricity tariffs for Band A customers, increasing the rate from N68 to N225 ($0.15) per kilowatt-hour. The revised pricing, which took effect from April 1, has since sparked widespread dissatisfaction among affected consumers, many of whom have continued to demand a review of the policy.
Taking to his official Facebook page, Igbokwe revealed that he and other Band A customers have found it difficult to use basic electrical appliances due to the sharp increase in costs. According to him, the financial burden has forced many households to cut back on the use of air conditioners, refrigerators, and even lighting.
“I pray that PBAT (President Bola Ahmed Tinubu) will revisit the Electricity Band A matter,” he wrote. “I do not think Distribution Companies are making the money they expected because we are switching off ACs, fridges, lights. Take all to Band B, make more money.”
Igbokwe’s remarks reflect growing public frustration over the tariff hike, with many Nigerians questioning the affordability and fairness of the policy amid the country’s current economic challenges