The National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) no longer regulates electricity services in Abia State, as oversight has been transferred to the Abia State Electricity Regulation Authority (ASERA). On Friday, ASERA issued interim power distribution and generation licenses to three Abia-based firms: New Era Electricity Distribution, APL Electricity, and Geometric Power Aba. ASERA chairman Emeka Onyegbule stated the state government has begun enforcing consumer protection and resolving disputes, warning licensed firms to operate transparently or face sanctions. Iguwo Ukwu, ASERA's Executive Director for Legal and Regulation, emphasized that billing, metering, and customer engagement must be fair, verifiable, and consistent with the approved regulatory framework. "You must demonstrate consumer protection and responsiveness," Ukwu said. The Abia State Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Ikechukwu Monday, represented by Kachu Etolue, Special Adviser to Governor Alex Otti on Energy, urged the companies to ensure reliable power supply and maintain public trust.
The same state government that inherited a collapsed power sector now expects three newly licensed firms to instantly deliver reliable electricity. ASERA's demand for transparency and fairness rings hollow when Abia's grid remains fragile and untested. No timeline was given for when consumers in Umuahia or Aba will see improved supply. The burden of proof is on the state, not just the companies.
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