Unbundle EEDC now, Anambra electricity consumers tell FG
Electricity consumers in Anambra have called for the restructuring of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), citing its failure to provide sufficient electricity across the South East.
This demand was detailed in a communiqué issued on Thursday in Awka by the Electricity Consumers Right Network (ECRN) following a stakeholders’ meeting in the state.
The communiqué was signed by Mr Osita Obi, National Coordinator of ECRN, and Mr Emeka Ral, Secretary of the organisation.
“We, the ECRN and concerned stakeholders, urgently call for intervention in the persistent power supply challenges affecting the South East region,” the communiqué stated.
The push for the restructuring of EEDC reflects the growing dissatisfaction among consumers.
The forum argued that the absence of competition in the electricity sector had led to inefficiency, unreliable service, and consumer exploitation by the EEDC.
“The EEDC’s monopoly over power supply has caused severe hardship for consumers, manifesting in erratic billing, inadequate electricity supply, and poor customer service,” they said.
The stakeholders also criticised the company’s role in supplying electricity meters, describing it as a clear conflict of interest.
“Allowing EEDC to distribute electricity meters is a blatant conflict of interest—it effectively allows the company to act as both regulator and service provider,” they asserted.
“We demand the immediate restructuring of the EEDC to foster competition, enhance efficiency, and improve the reliability of power supply.
“We also call for the establishment of independent power plants by the South East states to provide alternative energy sources and reduce dependence on the EEDC,” the group added.
They further urged the enactment of laws to regulate electricity billing, ensuring greater transparency and accountability in the sector.
Additionally, they demanded that the government revoke EEDC’s authority to supply meters, transferring the responsibility to an independent entity to prevent conflicts of interest.
The group warned that if both the Federal Government and the concerned states failed to address their grievances, they would resort to civil disobedience.
“We call on the relevant authorities, including the South East state governments, the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and the Federal Government, to act swiftly in response to these demands.
“We encourage consumers to stand up and assert their rights, demanding better services, transparency, and accountability from power providers.
“Together, we can secure a brighter future for our region, powered by efficient, reliable, and affordable electricity,” they concluded.
Reports indicate that Mr Emeka Eze, Director of Corporate Communications at EEDC, who had promised to attend the meeting, was absent.
