The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned the Ikeja and Eko electricity distribution companies (IKEDC and EKEDC) to stop any plans to replace Unistar meters, a move that the commission claims violates the rights of Nigerian consumers.
In a stern statement issued on Wednesday, the FCCPC emphasized that any attempt to proceed with the planned meter replacements would lead to severe consequences under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) of 2018.
The warning came after the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) approved new meter prices, which, according to the FCCPC, has no connection with the proposed replacement of Unistar meters by the two DisCos.
“The planned replacement of Unistar meters by Ikeja and Eko DisCos has been invalidated by both the FCCPC and NERC,” the commission stated. “There is no indication that these DisCos have followed proper procedures or complied with our directives.”
The commission’s warning highlights growing concerns over the rights of Nigerian electricity consumers, who have long struggled with meter issues, including overbilling and delays in installations. FCCPC officials are clear: any attempts by the DisCos to go ahead with replacing meters without proper compliance with NERC’s established guidelines will result in penalties.
“Obsolete Meters: Violation of Consumers’ Rights Will Have Stiff Consequences,” the statement declared, underscoring the seriousness of the issue.
The FCCPC reminded the two DisCos that they cannot remove or replace 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, which was issued under Order No. NERC/246/2021.
This order mandates that meter replacements must be carried out promptly and without causing disruption to service. More importantly, the replacement must come at no additional cost to the consumer. The order also insists that consumers must not be subjected to estimated billing due to delays in meter installations.
The FCCPC made it clear that the replacement of meters, if not done according to the guidelines, would be a violation of consumer rights. They warned that such violations could lead to substantial penalties as prescribed by consumer protection laws.
“We want to ensure that Nigerians are not exploited by service providers who fail to adhere to regulations set forth to protect them,” said Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs at FCCPC. “The rights of consumers must be upheld, and any action that threatens those rights will not be tolerated.”
The dispute centers around the planned replacement of Unistar meters, a move that has raised concerns among consumers who fear that it could lead to increased costs and further billing disputes. Unistar meters, which have been in use for several years, have been criticized for their accuracy and reliability, but many Nigerians fear that the proposed replacements could result in additional financial burdens without proper accountability.
In the FCCPC’s statement, consumers were urged to report any attempts by the two DisCos to proceed with the illegal meter replacements. A dedicated hotline has been established for this purpose: 08119877785. Consumers can contact the FCCPC to lodge complaints and seek resolution if they encounter any issues related to this matter.
“We are committed to protecting Nigerian consumers,” Ijagwu emphasized. “If Ikeja or Eko DisCos attempt to defy our directives, we will not hesitate to take legal action, including imposing penalties to ensure compliance.”
The FCCPC has vowed to remain vigilant, ensuring that the rights of Nigerian consumers are safeguarded against any unfair practices by service providers, especially in sectors as crucial as electricity.
