FG says no tariff hike now, but Kano traders have already given up on electricity

The Federal Government has come out to say there is no immediate plan to remove electricity subsidy or increase tariffs, after reports that subsidies could be phased out from 2027. Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe initially spoke about addressing distortions in the sector, then had to clarify that no policy decision has been made. Now everyone is asking why the story changed so fast.

Professor Kamilu Sani Fagge of the University of Kano thinks it is pure politics. He told DAILY POST, "This withdrawal of the subsidy discussion is simply political. After the election, you may hear about it again." He also said people have power to influence policies but many do not realise it. Meanwhile, Engr Jaafar Sulaiman pointed out that removing subsidy will not automatically give us more electricity, it will just make us pay more.

But for small business owners like Sa'idu Bala Mainkanti in Naibawa, Kano, the debate is just noise. He said electricity sometimes comes at midnight or 1 a.m. when shops are closed. Fatima Abdul, a hairdresser in Tudun Yola, said she has given up on electricity and depends on a petrol generator. So tell me, if we remove subsidy now, what exactly are we paying for? Be honest, is this government serious about power supply or just playing politics with our suffering?