By Kamsi Anayo Awka, Awka
Anambra state electricity consumers have called for the immediate unbundling of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), citing inefficiencies and exploitation.
The group under Electricity Consumers Right Network (ECRN) and other stakeholders made this demand in a communique on Thursday in Awka, emphasized the need for competition and reliable power supply in the region.
The communique, signed by Osita Obi, National Coordinator of the Electricity Consumers Right Network (ECRN), and Emeka Ral, Secretary of the Electricity Consumers Rite Network, emphasized the need for urgent action to address the power supply challenges in the region.
According to the communique, the lack of competition in the power supply sector has led to inefficiencies, unreliable services, and exploitation of consumers.
The EEDC’s monopoly on power supply has resulted in untold hardships for consumers, including erratic billing, inadequate supply, and poor customer service.
The group asked the immediate unbundling of the EEDC to promote competition, efficiency, and reliability in power supply.
They also called for the establishment of independent power plants by the state government to provide alternative sources of power and reduce reliance on the EEDC.
Furthermore, the group demanded the enactment of legislation to regulate electricity billing and ensure transparency and accountability in the power supply sector.
They also called for the cessation of EEDC’s meter manufacturing activities to prevent conflicts of interest.
In addition, the group called for civil disobedience across local government areas to press home their demands if the inefficiency continues.
They urged consumers to rise up and assert their rights, demanding better services, transparency, and accountability from the distribution companies.
They urged Anambra state government, National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and the Federal Government to take immediate action to address these demands.
The communique read in part,”We cannot continue to suffer in darkness while the EEDC exploits us with impunity,” Obi said.
“We demand that the relevant authorities take immediate action to unbundle the EEDC and provide us with reliable and affordable power supply.”
The call for unbundling of the EEDC has been gaining momentum in recent weeks, with many stakeholders calling for the break-up of the company to promote competition and efficiency in the power supply sector.
