The Organised Labour has vehemently opposed the Federal Government’s proposed privatization of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), expressing concern that it would exacerbate the socio-economic challenges faced by Nigerians. President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, issued a warning, asserting that the privatization move poses a significant threat to the power sector and raises apprehensions among key stakeholders.
During a sitting led by the factional Speaker, Edison Ehie, who is aligned with the governor, it was disclosed that the complex was slated for demolition due to the explosion on October 30, 2023. Ehie assured that the governor would provide an alternative venue for legislative activities temporarily.
Labour called upon all Nigerians to resist the privatization initiative, arguing that it jeopardizes the state’s ability to regulate and ensure the safety of the nation’s grid system. The NLC statement, titled “Intended power sector policies: Same mistake, defender consequences betraying hopes of Nigerians,” highlighted the potential dangers associated with the restructuring of TCN.
The statement emphasized that the proposed restructuring appeared to pave the way for eventual takeover by individuals close to the ruling elite. Labour drew parallels with past unsuccessful privatization efforts, expressing skepticism about the government’s motives and urging a genuine national stakeholders’ forum to review the failed privatization exercise.
The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, stated, “The disaster that will befall the nation’s power sector would be multidimensional.” Labour underscored the challenges faced by the power sector, including tariff increases and a lack of significant investment by private entities, cautioning against repeating past mistakes.
In conclusion, the NLC warned that the proposed policy direction, if implemented without careful consideration, could worsen the socioeconomic situation in Nigeria and urged a conscious power policy that is not influenced by neoliberal economic principles. The statement stressed the need for the nation to learn from past mistakes to avoid repeating them and experiencing similar consequences.
