Electricity consumers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have taken to the streets to express their discontent over an alleged increase in tariff without prior consultation. The residents, who reside in Kubwa and Lugbe, claim that the units given to them on purchase of credit for their prepaid meters have reduced significantly. According to the consumers, the reduction in units has resulted in higher costs for electricity consumption.
Mrs Juliet Ogheneovo, a resident of Kubwa, said she normally gets 89.9 units for N5, 000 when she purchases credit for her pre-paid meter. However, she recently discovered that she gets only 73.4 units for the same amount, leaving her with a significant increase in her electricity bill. Mr Malik Abubakar, another resident of Kubwa, also experienced a similar reduction in units, going from 89.9 units to 51.7 units for the same amount.
Mrs Caroline Uneru, a resident of Lugbe, expressed her surprise when she purchased credit units for her pre-paid meter and observed that the units had reduced from what it was before. She claimed that she used to get 99.6 units for N6, 000 but now gets only 88.2 units for the same amount.
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has the mandate to increase electricity tariffs in Nigeria, but an official of the commission denied any review in electricity tariff. However, the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) has yet to respond to messages and evidences of increment sent to them for over a week.
The situation has left many electricity consumers in the FCT frustrated and concerned about their increasing electricity bills.
The recent allegations of electricity tariff increase without consultation in the Federal Capital Territory highlight the need for transparency and accountability in the electricity sector. The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission must take immediate action to address the concerns of electricity consumers and ensure that tariffs are fair and reflective of the costs of generating and distributing electricity. The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company must also respond to the allegations and provide a clear explanation for the reduction in units given to consumers. The situation underscores the importance of effective regulation and consumer protection in the electricity sector.
