FCCPC Warns Power Firms to Respect Consumer Rights Amid Metering Changes
The head of Nigeria’s Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Tunji Bello, has issued a stern warning to electricity distribution companies (DisCos) on consumer rights, insisting that metering practices must be transparent and fair. His remarks, made during a high-stakes meeting with power sector stakeholders in Abuja on Tuesday, come amid rising concerns over arbitrary billing and outdated meters.
“Consumers’ rights in metering must be a priority,” Bello asserted. “The recent practices, particularly arbitrary billing and lack of transparency, are unacceptable. DisCos must ensure that all metering procedures adhere to the regulations set by the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC),” he added.
The session also tackled the looming phase-out of the Unistarprepaid meter, set to begin on November 14, which has raised alarms among consumers. Questions linger over whether DisCoswill impose the costs of new meters on households or revert to estimated billing— a practice banned by NERC. In a statement that captured the frustration of many Nigerians, a consumer from Ikeja wrote to the FCCPC, saying, “The exploitation of IKEDC on the change of meter is unacceptable. To change the meters in my house will cost about N1M. Please intervene.”
In response, Bello was unequivocal: “DisCos must bear the costs of replacing outdated meters. Consumers should not be financially burdened for equipment failures beyond their control.” He reminded companies that regulations mandate the transition to be at no cost to consumers.
The FCCPC also took aim at the persistent practice of placing households with faulty meters on estimated billing. “This approach is a violation of NERC guidelines,” Bello noted. “DisCos have no excuse for disregarding proper procedures, including compensating consumers for previously purchased meters and ensuring prompt replacements of faulty units. Corrective actions will be immediate.”
The gathering offered a platform for stakeholders to voice their concerns, marking a decisive stance from the FCCPC in holding DisCos accountable.
