Group Condemns Allegedly Exploitative Electricity Tariff

The Coalition of South-East Leaders, a socio-political youth group, has criticised the electricity billing practices of Aba Power Limited, describing them as excessive and exploitative.

The group stated that residents and businesses in Aba, Abia State, have suffered erratic power supply for over two years while being subjected to what it called unjustifiably high electricity charges. According to the coalition, many customers receive estimated bills amounting to large sums for electricity that was allegedly not supplied.

The President-General of the coalition, Goodluck Ibem, alleged that although prepaid meters were recently introduced, previously accumulated estimated charges were transferred onto the meters, forcing consumers to pay for power they did not use. He said such actions violate Nigerian electricity regulations and place severe financial strain on households and businesses.

Ibem warned that the situation is harming economic activities in Aba, a major commercial centre in the South-East. He noted that small businesses and ordinary households are struggling to cope, citing cases where residents with minimal electricity needs are reportedly required to pay large sums for only a few days of power supply.

Describing the practice as exploitative and unlawful, the coalition called for urgent intervention to protect consumers and prevent further damage to livelihoods. It appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to step in and halt what it termed reckless practices that threaten commerce and economic growth in the city.

The group also urged the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission to investigate the matter thoroughly and sanction any violations of consumer rights uncovered during the process.