A Bauchi-based group, Network of Civil Society Organisations (BASNEC) has called for prompt resolution of consumer complaints about electricity reductions and over billing.
The Chairman of the group, Mr Jinjiri Garba, stated this on Thursday in Bauchi during an advocacy visit to the Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JED).
He expressed concern over increasing consumer complaints over alleged unauthorised deductions.
“Complaints about unauthorised reductions from consumers are becoming worrisome.
”There should be a clear way forward to address these issues,” he said.
Responding, Alhaji Hafiz Hamza, Operating Officer, JED, said the complaints stem from a lack of understanding on how the company operates.
He said the company recently organised a customer consultative forum, to engage subscribers toward addressing their concerns.
Hamza lamented that the forum recorded a low turnout in spite of media publicity.
He said the company does not arbitrarily add debts to customers’ accounts, adding that customers are billed based on electricity consumed, including any outstanding charges before meter installation or migrated balances.
“While meter installation is officially free, some customers unknowingly pay installers due to lack of awareness, which may create the impression of over billing, certain installation-related costs may also be misunderstood by consumers,” he said.
Hamza assured that the company would strengthen collaboration with BASNEC, to improve awareness at the grassroots, to help customers to better understand their electricity billing.
While commending the advocacy, Hamza said that such partnership would enhance communication channels to resolve complaints and improve service delivery.
