In the midst of nationwide protests against the recent electricity tariff hike, Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu emphasized the importance of staying the course with the reform agenda set forth by President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Addressing concerns raised by Organised Labour, Adelabu underscored the necessity of maintaining the trajectory outlined in the reform roadmap to achieve a reliable and affordable electricity supply in Nigeria.
Acknowledging the fundamental right to peaceful protest in a democracy, Adelabu assured that the government is receptive to the demands put forth by Labour. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to engaging with stakeholders to reach a peaceful resolution, recognizing the vital role of collaboration with Labour unions in driving progress.
“In democracy, there are fundamental human rights. I cannot deny people their rights,” Adelabu stated. “It’s the right of the Labour to protest peacefully and to come up with their demands, from the perspective they saw what we did. It is clearly allowed, it is legitimate and it is understandable. So we cannot stop them from organizing a peaceful protest or laying down their demands.”
However, Adelabu also highlighted the fact that a significant portion of those protesting are not directly impacted by the tariff hike, as they continue to benefit from substantial government subsidies. He urged consideration of this reality in discussions surrounding the tariff adjustment, emphasizing the need for collective sacrifice to secure lasting benefits in the power sector.
“When they say we should reverse the recently increased tariff, sincerely it’s not affecting them. That’s one position,” Adelabu pointed out.
As discussions continue, Adelabu urged all parties to remain focused on the larger goal of sustainable reform, emphasizing that temporary challenges are inevitable on the path to long-term progress.
“We have a clearly documented reform roadmap to take us to our desired destination, where we’re going to have reliable, functional, cost-effective and affordable electricity in Nigeria,” he said. “Nobody promised us or assured us that the road will be smooth. We knew it’s going to be rough, but we must weather the storm, which is going to be temporary.”
Adelabu concluded by reiterating the administration’s commitment to working with Labour unions to address concerns and move forward in achieving the shared goal of a transformed power sector. He expressed optimism that through collaboration and dialogue, a peaceful resolution can be reached that aligns with the broader interests of the Nigerian people.”
