Electricity consumers throughout Nigeria are expressing their anger over the exploitation they endure from electricity distribution companies (DisCos). Common complaints include long delays in obtaining prepaid meters, extortion practices, and unauthorized disconnections.

An insider from the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) revealed serious issues with customer service and rampant extortion in the Bwari Area Council. Residents are subjected to unverified meter installations and disconnections, even when they possess prepaid meters. Many individuals report frustratingly long waits for meter installations and express concerns about being charged for services they never received.

This dissatisfaction is felt nationwide, particularly in communities like Samaru-Kataf in Kaduna State, which continues to face persistent power outages that disrupt local economic activities. Residents are outraged over high fixed electricity bills despite inconsistent service, leading to fears of accumulating charges during blackouts.

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Recently, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) took action by fining all 11 DisCos a total of N9.11 billion for overbilling customers and has mandated improvements in service delivery. However, allegations of bribery and extortion continue to surface, leaving residents feeling compelled to pay off officials to prevent disconnections.

In light of the growing consumer discontent, AEDC has promised to enhance services, including the completion of the National Mass Metering Programme and the introduction of automated metering processes. Despite these assurances, many consumers remain skeptical, questioning the fairness of ongoing tariff hikes amid economic challenges.

The Electricity Consumer Protection Advocacy Centre (ECPAC) is advocating for legislative investigations into DisCos’ practices, arguing that the continuous increase in tariffs undermines consumer rights and demonstrates a blatant disregard for regulatory guidelines. The Executive Director of ECPAC has stressed the urgent need for NERC to enforce compliance and safeguard consumers from unjust billing practices.