The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has stressed the need for the Federal Government to provide subsidies on electricity tariffs for less-privileged Nigerians.

Obi made the remark when he visited Bauchi State where he inaugurated a borehole project in the Sabon Layi Community on the outskirt of Bauchi metropolis.

He argued that if there is an absolute necessity for an increase in tariffs, it should solely target individuals with the financial wherewithal, rather than burdening those who are already struggling.

Highlighting the importance of supporting small businesses and promoting economic growth, he further stressed the need for a concentrated effort to generate more power.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) on April 3, 2024 raised electricity tariff for customers enjoying 20 hours power supply daily. Customers in this category are said to be under the Band A classification. 

The increase will see the customers paying 225 naira kilowatt per hour from the current 66 naira, a development that has been heavily criticized by many Nigerians, considering the immediacy of the tariff hike and the current hardship in the land.