Anambra Electricity Consumers Demand Unbundling of EEDC Over alleged Inefficiencies, Exploitation

By Praise Chinecherem

A group of electricity consumers in Anambra State has called for unbundling of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) over alleged inefficiencies and exploitation, stressing that there was urgent need for competition and reliable power supply in the south east region.

The Electricity Consumers Right Network (ECRN) and other stakeholders who made this demand in a communique on Thursday in Awka, also threatened to organize a civil obedience across 21 local government areas in the state 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 power supply companies.

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, said there was 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.

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.

The communique reads, “We, the Electricity Consumers Right Network (ECRN) and concerned stakeholders, rise to demand immediate attention to the perennial power supply challenges plaguing our region.

“The recent call for the unbundling of the Enugu Electricity Development Company (EEDC) is a testament to the growing discontent among consumers.

“We assert that: The lack of competition in the power supply sector has led to inefficiencies, unreliable services, and exploitation of consumers.

1. “EEDC’s monopoly on power supply has resulted in untold hardships for consumers, including erratic billing, inadequate supply, and poor customer service.
2. The manufacture of electricity meters by EEDC is a clear conflict of interest, allowing the company to be a judge in its own cause.

“We demand: The immediate unbundling of the EEDC to promote competition, efficiency, and reliability in power supply.

1. The establishment of independent power plants by the state government to provide alternative sources of power and reduce reliance on the EEDC.
2. The enactment of legislation to regulate electricity billing and ensure transparency and accountability in the power supply sector.
3. The cessation of EEDC’s meter manufacturing activities to prevent conflicts of interest.
4. Civil Disobedience on this matter, across the LGAs

“We call on the relevant authorities, including the Anambra State Government, the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and the Federal Government, to take immediate action to address these demands.

“We urge consumers to rise up and assert their rights, demanding better services, transparency, and accountability from the power supply companies.

“Together, we can create a brighter future for our region, powered by efficient, reliable, and affordable electricity.”