In recent developments, the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company has implemented the new electricity tariff across all customers, sparking apprehension among consumers.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) gave the green light to all eleven Distribution Companies nationwide to increase electricity rates to N255 per Kilowatt from the previous N68 for customers falling under Band A.

Band A customers typically receive 20-24 hours of power supply, while those in Bands B to E receive 16 hours and below. Despite the announcement, many customers are still being billed at the new tariff rate, even if they do not receive the promised 20-hour power supply.

This adjustment marks the fourth increase in tariff since the 2020 Multi-Year Tariff Order, raising concerns among citizens about heightened economic hardship. A household consuming 50kwh per day could potentially spend around N350,000 per month and N4 million annually on electricity supply alone.

NERC had previously stated that only 15% of electricity customers would be affected by the hike and that monthly electricity subsidies would be reduced by 52% (N131.1 billion). However, the current situation suggests otherwise, leading to widespread frustration among consumers.

Uket Obonga, the national secretary of the Network for Electricity Consumers Advocacy of Nigeria, criticized NERC for what he perceives as insincerity regarding the tariff hike. He highlighted concerns about the arbitrary migration of customers into Band A feeders by Distribution Companies, exacerbating the financial burden on consumers.

Retired PHCN staff Ewetumo A A echoed these sentiments, labeling the Discos as fraudsters and expressing skepticism about NERC's monitoring capabilities. He warned that ultimately, all customers across Bands A to E may end up paying the new tariff rate, regardless of their initial classification.

In light of these developments, consumers are left grappling with uncertainty as they navigate the implications of the latest electricity tariff hike.