In response to the prevailing challenges faced by the nation, the Senate on Wednesday, February 21, issued a resolute plea to the federal government, urging against the removal of the electricity subsidy.
The Senate’s decision came following a thorough deliberation and subsequent approval of a motion during plenary, emphasising the necessity of retaining the subsidy on electricity for the foreseeable future.
The motion, put forth by Senator Aminu Iya Abbas, representing the Adamawa Central Zone, under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), garnered significant support from the Senate.
The federal government’s recent declaration indicating the difficulty of sustaining electricity subsidy had sparked concerns.
Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, disclosed the government’s stance, stressing the imperative of transitioning towards a more cost-effective tariff model for electricity. Adelabu further highlighted Nigeria’s substantial indebtedness, amounting to N1.3 trillion to electricity-generating companies and a $1.3 billion debt to gas companies.
In light of these developments, the Senate’s resolution underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgent need to prioritise the welfare of citizens amidst prevailing economic challenges.
