We’re Yet To Receive Directive On New Electricity Tariff Suspension DisCos

Despite the agreement reached between the Federal Government and labour unions leading to the suspension of last Monday nationwide strike, the Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) in the country say they have not received any directive on the suspension of the increased electricity tariff from the government.

Recall that while the labour unions had agreed to halt the planned protest on Monday, the government on its part agreed to suspend the implementation of the new electricity tariff increase.

The government also agreed to rehabilate the refineries in the country to reduce the cost of fuel.

However, a top official of the Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED), the umbrella body of the DisCos, told The Cable on Tuesday, government has not asked them to suspend the new tariff regime.

“DisCos haven’t received any order or directives from NERC on the suspension,” the ANED official said.

“FG had a meeting with NLC and reached the agreement. It’s the order from NERC that we react to as the regulator of the sector. Nothing yet.

“ANED has been told not to go to the press due to the ongoing discussions with FG and its agencies.

“It’s not a plug and play. There is a process involved with such adjustment. For example, there will be a shortfall if implemented. Who takes care of the shortfall? Also, there must be consultation, who takes care of that? So much is involved. We are watching and waiting.

“Also, for customers that have prepaid since September 1, who pays back the refund? It’s not just straight forward stuff. In addition, what does the suspension mean? Cancellation? Reversal? Not clear yet.”