Electricity consumers under the auspices of Electricity Consumers Right Network (ECRN) have lamented over erratic billing, inadequate power supply and poor customer service in Anambra state.
ECRN, in a communique issued at end of their meeting in Awka, Anambra state capital, insisted that the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) monopoly on power supply has resulted in untold hardships on consumers.
The communique signed by the National Coordinator, ECRN, Comrade Osita Obi, and the Secretary, Comrade Emeka Ral, demanded for immediate unbundling of the EEDC to promote competition, efficiency, and reliability in power supply.
“The lack of competition in the power supply sector has led to inefficiencies, unreliable services, and exploitation of consumers. The EEDC’s monopoly on power supply has resulted in untold hardships for consumers, including erratic billing, inadequate supply, and poor customer service.
“The manufacture of electricity meters by EEDC is a clear conflict of interest, allowing the company to be a judge in its own cause. The establishment of independent power plants by the state government to provide alternative sources of power and reduce reliance on the EEDC,” they stated.
They also called for enactment of legislation to regulate electricity billing and ensure transparency and accountability in the power supply sector, and cessation of EEDC’s meter manufacturing activities to prevent conflicts of interest.
“Consumers must rise up and assert their rights, demanding better services, transparency, and accountability from the power supply companies. We also call on the relevant authorities, including the Anambra State Government, the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and the Federal Government, to take immediate action to address these demands,” they added.