Senate Committee on Power Summons Minister and NERC over Electricity Tariff Hike

The Senate Committee on Power has summoned the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and the leadership of the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) for an investigative hearing on the recent electricity tariff hike.

Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Power, announced this during the committee’s oversight function and familiarisation tour to the Minister.

The investigative hearing, scheduled for April 29, 2024, aims to address the concerns surrounding the electricity tariff hike and give the NERC an opportunity to explain the rationale behind the increase.

Senator Abaribe expressed his concerns about the poor power situation in Nigeria despite the significant investments made in the power sector.

He questioned why the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and other power sector agencies have consistently allowed the power grid to collapse over the years.

During the visit, the Senate committee inspected a power project on the premises of the ministry and held an oversight meeting with the TCN on issues related to power generation and transmission.

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, highlighted the challenges facing the power sector, including inadequate funding, vandalism, issues with right-of-way, and a lack of gas.

He urged the committee to support the power ministry in addressing these challenges and achieving its mandate.

The Senate Committee on Power’s decision to summon the Minister and NERC officials demonstrates its commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in the power sector.

The outcome of the investigative hearing may lead to potential reforms and improvements in the country’s electricity supply.