Nigerians with prepaid electricity meters may soon face a major challenge as electricity distribution companies (Discos) are reportedly planning to migrate about 3 million subscribers back to estimated billing.....Read Full Article>>
This alarming development has sparked widespread concerns among consumers who fear being overcharged for electricity. According to recent reports, this move stems from a shortage of prepaid meter units, which the Discos claim has made it difficult to serve the increasing demand for metered electricity across the
country. Rather than continue with the prepaid metering system, affected subscribers could be billed based on estimated electricity consumption— a system many Nigerians believe is unfair and exploitative.
One electricity consumer, James Okoro, expressed his frustration, saying, ” We fought hard to escape estimated billing because it’ s daylight robbery. This is like taking us back to the dark ages. ”
The estimated billing method has faced criticism for lacking transparency, often resulting in higher- than- expected bills for customers. In contrast, prepaid meters offer a fair system where consumers pay only for the electricity they use.
Consumer advocacy groups are already calling on the government to intervene and ensure the right of citizens to fair and accurate billing. A representative of one such group stated, ” The government must hold the Discos accountable. Nigerians deserve access to prepaid meters without unnecessary excuses. ”
It’ s important to note that the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) had earlier mandated that all electricity consumers be metered to eliminate the controversies surrounding estimated billing. However, with this new plan by Discos, many are questioning the commitment of power companies to this directive.
If you are a prepaid meter user, stay vigilant. Ensure you speak out against this plan by joining advocacy campaigns to protect consumer rights. Estimated billing is not the solution Nigerians deserve!
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