We Switch Off ACs, Fridges, Light – APC’s Joe Igbokwe Decries Electricity Tariff Hike Affecting Band A Nigerians

 

Joe Igbokwe, a prominent figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC), has joined the growing number of Nigerians voicing frustration over the latest hike in electricity tariffs. His concern reflects the broader discomfort felt by millions of citizens, particularly those categorized under Band A, who have found themselves at the receiving end of a dramatic 300 percent surge in power costs.

The new tariff structure, implemented by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) in April 2024, has effectively pushed the cost of power from N68 to N225 per kilowatt-hour for Band A consumers. This category primarily includes urban residents and high-energy users who are supposedly guaranteed up to 20 hours of electricity supply daily. The regulatory change took effect on April 1, triggering widespread backlash from consumers and advocacy groups alike.

Joe Igbokwe, who is widely known for his grassroots engagement and commentary on socio-political issues, took to Facebook to share his personal experience and disappointment. He revealed that the financial weight of the new pricing model has forced many, including himself, to scale down electricity usage drastically. According to Igbokwe, basic home appliances such as air conditioners and refrigerators are now considered a luxury by many urban dwellers who fall into Band A.

“We switch off ACs, fridges, lights. Take all to Band B, make more money,” Igbokwe wrote, appealing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reconsider the policy. He argued that the projected revenue from the hike might not be materializing, as many households have been left with no choice but to reduce electricity consumption. For Igbokwe, the tariff increase is not just an economic miscalculation; it is a blow to the quality of life for Nigerians who have worked hard to earn the conveniences of modern living.

Public reactions to the tariff adjustment have been overwhelmingly critical. Various consumer rights advocates and economic analysts have warned that the policy may further erode public trust in the energy sector, already plagued by inefficiencies, erratic supply, and poor infrastructure. The Band A classification, which was designed to ensure reliability and constant power flow, now appears to be backfiring, as affordability has quickly become a bigger issue than availability.

Across social media platforms and in market discussions, Nigerians continue to share stories of how the hike has affected their lives. Small businesses have reported increased operational costs, with some resorting to diesel generators to offset peak-hour expenses. Households that previously enjoyed the comfort of continuous cooling during the hot season are now rationing power usage to limit their bills. It’s a situation that critics argue undermines the very rationale behind the tiered electricity system.

From an economic standpoint, the timing of the increase has added pressure to households already grappling with inflation, high transportation costs, and unemployment. Economists have warned that the combined effects of these issues may push more Nigerians below the poverty line if urgent interventions are not made.

Despite the criticism, government officials and electricity distribution companies (DisCos) have defended the increase, saying it is essential to sustaining the sector. They argue that the funds collected through Band A tariffs help subsidize other bands and improve the infrastructure needed to ensure nationwide electricity access. However, this defense has done little to assuage public anger, especially when outages and poor service still persist in many Band A locations.

Calls for a review are growing louder. Several civil society groups have joined Igbokwe in urging President Tinubu to act swiftly. They have suggested that a comprehensive audit of the new tariff policy be carried out, taking into account its impact on both urban and rural consumers, as well as its long-term viability.

As the nation grapples with this unfolding crisis, the coming weeks may determine whether the federal government is willing to reconsider the pricing structure or stay the course in pursuit of long-term energy reform. For now, many Nigerians will continue to monitor their power meters closely, cautiously using the few appliances they can still afford to run.

The message is clear: for many citizens, electricity is no longer just a utility. It is a choice between comfort and survival.