Residents in Anambra have called for the introduction of independent meter suppliers, accusing the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) of a conflict of interest in supplying the devices to consumers.
In a communiqué issued on Thursday after a stakeholders’ meeting in Awka, Osita Obi, national coordinator of the Electricity Consumers Right Network (ECRN), said the company is also unable to supply adequate electricity in the south east.
The communiqué was co-signed by Emeka Ral, the secretary of ECRN, according to NAN.
“We the ECRN and concerned stakeholders rise to demand immediate attention to the perennial power supply challenges plaguing the South East region,” Obi said.
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“The EEDC’s monopoly on power supply has resulted in untold hardships for consumers, including erratic billing, inadequate supply, and poor customer service.
“Supplying electricity meters by the EEDC is a clear conflict of interest; this amounts to allowing the company to be a judge in its own cause.
“We demand the immediate unbundling of the EEDC to promote competition, efficiency, and reliability in power supply.
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“The establishment of independent power plants by the South East states to provide alternative sources of power and reduce reliance on the EEDC.”
The chairman further said Anambra residents seek legislation to regulate electricity billing, warning that the inability of the government to tackle issues raised will lead to civil disobedience.
“We call on the relevant authorities, including the South East states, the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and the federal government, to take immediate action to address these demands,” he stated.
“We urge consumers to rise up and assert their rights, demanding better services, transparency, and accountability from the power supply companies.”
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He added that they can create a brighter future for the region “together”, powered by efficient, reliable, and affordable electricity.
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