The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) urged the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to consider imposing stronger penalties on Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) for their infractions.
This call was made on Monday in a statement released by Dr. Adamu Abdullahi, the acting Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC.
Acknowledging NERC’s recent action against eleven DisCos for their failure to comply with the capping of estimated bills for unmetered customers, the FCCPC expressed its support for this decisive action. It emphasized that such measures are in line with the FCCPA 2018, specifically Section 17 (s), which empowers the Commission to safeguard consumers from exploitative practices and demand redress on their behalf.
“We stand with NERC in its commitment to protect unmetered customers from arbitrary billing by DisCos,” the statement affirmed.
The FCCPC further urged NERC to explore even more stringent measures to deter future violations, suggesting options such as increased financial penalties, stricter enforcement mechanisms, and the revocation of operating licenses for repeat offenders.
Additionally, the FCCPC reiterated its unwavering dedication to advocating for electricity consumers in Nigeria. It highlighted its ongoing efforts in resolving consumer complaints and organizing electricity consumer platforms nationwide, which provide opportunities for consumers to voice their concerns and receive prompt responses and resolutions.
The Commission also emphasized its existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NERC, aimed at enhancing consumer protection through information sharing, joint investigations, and coordinated enforcement actions.
Recognizing the need for fundamental reforms in the electricity sector to address challenges such as metering gaps, billing malpractices, and inadequate customer service, the FCCPC encouraged consumers who have been affected by estimated billing to file complaints with their respective DisCos and escalate unresolved issues to NERC or the FCCPC for investigation and redress.