From Lateef Taiwo
The House of Representatives has called for the immediate suspension of the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Authority (NMDPRA) pending a thorough investigation into allegations against the Authority.
This decision followed a motion of urgent public importance presented by Hon. Esosa Iyawe, who expressed concern about the impact of high sulfur content in fuels on engine hardware and the environment.
Hon Iyawe highlighted the risks associated with sulfur, including damage to engines, air pollution, and negative health effects such as respiratory problems and cancer.
He noted that governments worldwide have established standards to reduce sulfur emissions, and diesel producers are expected to adhere to these regulations.
Consequently, the House has ordered the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and Distribution Companies (DISCOs) to immediately revert to the old electricity tariff for Band A customers, following the adoption of a report by the House Committee on Power.
The report recommended a reversal of the recent tariff hike, citing the unaffordability of the new rate for Nigerians.
It would be recalled that NERC had previously announced a tariff increase to N225 per kilowatt for Band A customers, but the House has now directed a return to the old tariff pending an investigation into the hike.
The Chairman of the House of Reps Committee on Power, Hon Victor Nwokolo, presented the report, highlighting the unaffordability of the new tariff for Nigerians.
The House unanimously adopted the recommendations, directing an immediate reversal of the tariff hike.
Following other relevant matters of the day at plenary, the House resolved to adjourn till September 17, 2024 stressing that members might be call for an emergency meeting if there is a need for such at every given time.
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