Anambra Electricity Consumers Take Stand Over Epileptic Power Supply
Electricity consumers in Anambra state have issued a strong demand to First Power, the state's electricity distribution company, urging the installation of prepaid meters in households. This call aims to end the era of exploitation and disputes caused by estimated billing practices, which have long plagued residents.
Consumers Reject Estimated Billing and Demand Reliable Power
During a public consultative forum held on Tuesday, March 24, in Awka, the state capital, consumers voiced their frustrations over unreliable electricity and unfair billing. The forum focused on the draft electricity regulation that will shape the Anambra state electricity market. In an exclusive interview, Comrade Osita Obi, coordinator of the Electricity Consumers Rights Network, emphasized that consumers have the right to enjoy the electricity they pay for. He stated that estimated billing has frequently led to conflicts between consumers and the power distribution company.
His words were clear: "First Power should ensure that they supply customers with electricity. Consumers have the right to enjoy the electricity they pay for. What consumers are demanding is that they should bill us based on the power they supply." To achieve this, he called for the installation of prepaid meters and the phasing out of estimated billing to resolve ongoing disputes.
First Power Promises Faster Meter Installation with New Lab
In response, the Managing Director of First Power, Okechukwu Okafor, announced significant progress in meter installations. The company has constructed a standard meter lab in Onitsha, capable of producing 2,500 meters daily. This facility aims to streamline the process, with customers expected to receive meters within three weeks of payment. Okafor explained, "Before now, every meter demand was channelled to Enugu. But now, we have a standard meter lab in Onitsha, making the process faster." He added that the company hopes to stabilize the system within 18 months, despite ongoing challenges from new customers and buildings.
State Regulators Pledge Fair Billing and Oversight
Engr. Geofrey Okechukwu, vice chairman of the Anambra State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ASERC), assured consumers that the commission is empowered by the Anambra State Electricity Regulatory Law, 2025, to ensure adequate electricity supply. He highlighted that the forum allowed stakeholders to discuss roles in achieving lasting solutions to power issues. "The essence of all these is to ensure that power will be available, accessible, and affordable in Anambra state," he stated.
ASERC Chairman Prof. Frank Nwoye Okafor emphasized the commission's role in promoting efficient power supply and smooth relations between consumers and the distribution company. He urged residents to lodge complaints formally rather than staying silent. Engr. Anosike Emmanuel, ASERC's Executive Commissioner for Customer Protection, detailed the complaint process, noting that customers are entitled to compensation for wrongful billing or disconnection. "If you are overbilled and can prove it, come to ASERC, and you will be compensated," he said, adding that complaints should be resolved within two days for minor issues or one week for transformer-related problems.
Nationwide Power Supply Challenges Explained
In a related development, Ikeja Electric attributed worsening electricity supply across its network to a nationwide decline in generation, caused by limited gas availability for thermal power plants. This reduction has lowered national grid allocations, affecting distribution to homes, businesses, and industries. The company expressed regret over the inconvenience and stated it is working to manage the limited electricity efficiently and fairly.
