FCCPC Warns DisCos Against Flouting Meter Replacement Directive

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a stern warning to Ikeja and Eko Electricity Distribution Companies (IKEDC and EKEDC) regarding their plans to replace Unistar meters, following concerns that the directive to halt such activities may be disregarded.

In a recent statement, signed by Director of Corporate Affairs Ondaje Ijagwu, the FCCPC expressed alarm over rumours suggesting that both IKEDC and EKEDC may continue with the proposed meter replacements, despite a clear directive to cease.

The Commission made it clear that the order “remains in full force,” and any attempt by the DisCos to proceed in violation of it will result in “severe consequences.

“Ijagwu further clarified, “Contrary to recent rumours, the approval of new meter prices by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has no connection with the proposed replacement of Unistar meters by IKEDC and EKEDC.

“The planned replacement has been invalidated by both the FCCPC and NERC, and there is no indication that the affected DisCos have breached our directives.

”He also emphasised that Ikeja and Eko DisCos cannot move forward with replacing Unistar meters unless they fully comply with NERC’s “Order on Structured Replacement of Faulty and Obsolete End-user Customer Meters in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry” (Order No. NERC/246/2021). The order mandates that replacements must be “prompt, without disrupting service and at no cost to the consumer,” and ensures consumers are not subjected to estimated billing due to delays.

The FCCPC further stressed that it will not tolerate non-compliance, stating that “any breach of this directive will attract stiff penalties” in accordance with consumer protection laws.Consumers who encounter attempts by the DisCos to flout the directive are advised to contact the FCCPC’s dedicated electricity issues line at 08119877785.The FCCPC reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights of Nigerian consumers, ensuring they are shielded from “unfair practices by service providers.”

Frances Ibiefo

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