In a growing trend across Nigeria, numerous consumers are requesting disconnection from electricity supply due to the rising costs associated with energy bills. Many of these consumers, particularly those categorized under Bands A and B, are struggling with postpaid billing systems that have become unsustainable for their households and businesses.
Recent findings by Saturday PUNCH reveal that estimated bills for unmetered consumers can range dramatically from N40,000 to as much as N400,000, depending on the type and number of electrical appliances in use, as well as the size of the residence or shop. This alarming trend has led some prepaid customers in Band A to also experience financial strain, often resulting in prolonged power outages as they are unable to meet their tariff obligations.
The current electricity tariff rates stand at N209.50 per kilowatt-hour for Band A customers, while Band B consumers pay N64.07 per kilowatt-hour. The minimum supply hours differ, with Band A receiving electricity for an average of 20 hours per day, compared to 16 hours for Band B customers. This disparity is becoming increasingly untenable for many, as the broader economic climate continues to tighten.
The complaints regarding high estimated billing practices have reached a crescendo, with many unmetered consumers expressing their dissatisfaction. They report that the charges reflect a stark disconnect between their actual usage and the costs imposed, prompting some to prefer living without electricity rather than accruing debt for what they perceive as ‘unused energy.’
An anonymous employee from the Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company reported a noticeable increase in disconnection requests, stating that the company disconnects between 15 to 20 households each month based on consumer requests. “It is a common request from people, especially those on Band A who find it difficult to pay for electricity,” he noted, illustrating the gravity of the situation faced by many postpaid customers.
Personal testimonies reveal the harsh realities many consumers are enduring. Bisola Adeoye, a petty trader in Osogbo, recounted her struggles with exorbitant estimated bills that ranged between N200,000 and N300,000 for her single shop. She explained her decision to disconnect, saying, “I cannot continue paying for what I didn’t use. I have other responsibilities. My priority is feeding my family. The economy is hard.”
Similarly, Baba Solia, a resident of Owode-Ede, described his estimated bill as “crazy and difficult to pay,” highlighting the absurdity of being charged N120,000 for minimal usage. “I told them to disconnect my electricity three weeks ago because I cannot continue paying for what I didn’t use,” he lamented.
Dupe Ishola from Ibadan expressed frustration with the IBEDC’s practices, noting that her estimated billing had accumulated to over N1.2 million despite her consistent payments of N10,000 per month for basic appliances. Her call for action underscores a widespread sentiment that utility companies are insensitive to the economic challenges many Nigerians face.
Community leaders are also voicing their concerns. Akeem Akejo, Chairman of the Seidu II community in Ikorodu, urged distribution companies to reconsider their pricing strategies, stating, “The electricity tariff is too high; everyone is lamenting. DisCos should provide prepaid meters and reduce tariffs.” This call reflects the broader public demand for fairer energy pricing and better service options.
Amid these complaints, a resident from Ogun State, Olufemi Adeyemi, revealed that his community has engaged legal assistance to combat the estimated billing practices, stating, “We can’t afford electricity.” This growing movement for legal recourse highlights the desperation felt by many consumers as they navigate these financial challenges.
In response to the escalating situation, Sunday Oduntan, spokesperson for the DisCos, expressed understanding for the consumers’ plight while emphasizing the need for payment for services rendered. “Electricity is a product like others. You pay when needed,” he stated, while also noting the challenges posed by a lack of reliable data that could assist the government in supporting those in need.
