The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company PLC (EEDC) has dismissed claims making rounds the social media that electricity customers can now apply and obtain free prepaid meter.
EEDC was reacting to a video circulating on the social media space, made by Mazi Okechukwu Cyril Nwuche who claims to be a lecturer at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, and the Anambra State Chairman of South East Electricity Consumers Association (SEECA), purporting that EEDC was calling on its customers to apply for free prepaid meter.
EEDC’s Head of Corporate Communications, Mr. Emeka Ezeh said in a statement that the information was “not only incorrect but laced with mischief aimed at misleading unsuspecting customers and creating confusion within the space.”
He clarified: “Whilst EEDC encourages its customers in need of meters to apply and have their premises metered, it is important that they are armed with the right information, and that they also understand the procedure in place for meter acquisition.”
Ezeh adds: “EEDC clearly states that the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) metering scheme remains the available metering option for customers who want to acquire prepaid meters.
“This arrangement allows the customers to pay for the meter and be reimbursed through energy, over a period. All they need to do is simply log on to the EEDC website (www.enugudisco.com) and fill the meter application form to initiate the process.
“Alternatively, customers can visit their respective district offices or service centers with a copy of their bills for further assistance by the customer service representatives.
The EEDC Spokesman further disclosed that customers living in communities that are under a bulk billing arrangement cannot apply individually for prepaid meters, except the community opts to be debulked, which will require enumeration and creation of account for the individual customers.
“That is the only time individual customers within such a community can apply to be metered.”, he adds.
On the issue of “free meter” to customers, Ezeh said that the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), recently came up with an initiative designed to close the metering gap for unmetered customers within the Band “A” feeders.
According to him, modalities for the new free meter program will be made known to customers once it is ready.
He said: “It is the responsibility of EEDC to provide its customers with accurate information. Customers are therefore advised to always seek clarification and make enquiries on issues of concern through the approved EEDC communication channels. These include its website (www.enugudisco.com), social media handles (Facebook, X, and Instagram), 24/7 Call Center (02084700100) or by visiting the Customer Service Unit at the District Office.
“Misinformation spread by opinionated individuals like Mazi Okechukwu Cyril Nwuche and his group members (SEECA) should not be given any credence, as they are out to mislead and misinform unsuspecting customers thereby creating confusion amongst EEDC customers.
“EEDC remains committed to providing improved service to its esteemed customers.
