Tariff Hike: UNIBEN‘s Monthly Electricity Bill Rises, Resorts To Load Shedding

The University of Benin (UNIBEN), Benin City, Edo State, has resorted to load shedding following the astronomical rise in its electricity bill as a result of the recent hike in tariff by the Nigerian government, CAMPUS GIST reports.

The University’s management in a memo to its community, titled: ‘Update on Power Supply to University Community’, sighted by CAMPUS GIST, said it could no longer cope with the new tariff which resulted to a consumption of N280m for the month of April, 2024.

UNIBEN revealed that it had entered into negotiation with Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) over the development.

The statement reads, “It has become necessary to bring to the notice of the Provost, Deans, Directors and members of the University community the adverse consequences resulting from the 340% increment on electricity tariff by NERC particularly to Band A consumers where the University is currently connected.

“Our April bill is about 280 million from the former bill of about 80 million Naira therefore, Management is left with no other option than load shedding to reduce cost whilst negotiation continues with BEDC. Normalcy of power supply will be restored as soon as negotiations are concluded.

“Management appreciates your usual support, understanding and regrets any inconveniences the increment may have caused you.”