The Senate has launched an inquiry into the recent electricity tariff increase affecting 11 states in Nigeria.
During the ongoing session at the Senate wing of the National Assembly on Monday, the Red Chamber emphasized its commitment to holding accountable any individuals or agencies responsible for exacerbating the hardships faced by Nigerians.
Last week, the Senate’s Committee on Power summoned the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and other officials from agencies under the ministry for an investigative hearing regarding the new electricity tariffs.
Senator Eyinnaya Ababribe, the committee chairman, stated, “The Senate has authorized an investigative hearing scheduled for April 29, 2024. Key government agencies will be questioned.”
“We have summoned the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to address the electricity tariff hike. The Minister of Power is also expected to appear,” Senator Ababribe added.
During Monday’s hearing, Senator Ababribe reiterated that the investigation stemmed from motions presented at plenary sessions on July 25, 2023, and February 21, 2024. These motions mandated the Committee on Power to engage with the Federal Ministry of Power, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and other stakeholders.
Furthermore, the committee’s mandate includes finding lasting solutions to challenges in the Nigerian Electricity Sector and conducting comprehensive sector reforms.
Senator Ababribe highlighted specific areas of inquiry, such as the substantial subsidy requirements estimated at over N2 trillion, outstanding debts owed by the Ministry of Power to generating and gas companies, and the failure of agreements to provide meters by involved parties.
Additionally, the committee seeks clarification on the transition from previous customer classifications to the current system of customer bands.
“We are resolutely committed to fulfilling this assignment to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians,” Senator Ababribe affirmed. “We will not hesitate to sanction anyone or any agency found culpable.”
(sources : punchng.com)