FCCPC enjoin electricity consumers to be courteous in lodging their complaints

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, FCCPC, has advised electricity consumers to be courteous in presenting their complaints to electricity distribution companies , ?DIsCos)and avoid taking laws into their hands.

The electricity distribution companies are also enjoined to be forthcoming in resolving consumer issues rather than delays.

Speaking during the Electricity Consumer Complaint Resolution Forum held in Lagos the acting Chief Executive Officer, FCCCP, Adamu Abdullahi who reiterated the commission’s commitment towards addressing electricity consumer complaints , urged the consumers to always report first to the DisCOs before escalating the matter to FCCPC.

The four day forum brought together Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company, (IKEDC) regulators, electricity consumers, and FCCPC as they diligently resolve consumer issues including over billing, metering, transformer, energy capping and disconnection without notice.

Mr Abdullahi said the commission’s objective was to address as many consumer issues as possible and to enhance consumer protection in electricity matters, the commission is undertaking a nationwide campaign sponsored by the MacArthur Foundation.

“Our nationwide journey continues as we wrap up in Bauchi and move forward. We’ve received numerous complaints, and our commitment remains steadfast in addressing each one as we progress in our mission,” Abdulahi said.

The acting CEO of FCCPC who listed some of the consumer rights advised consumers to exercise patience and adhere to directives as they work towards resolving numerous challenges.

The Head of Governance and Regulatory, Ikeja Distribution Company, IKEDC, Mrs Jolaoluwa Adewale, who said consumer remained the key to the survival of any business, reassured their commitment towards resolving all issues to the best of their abilities.

“”For the past four days, we have been here addressing your concerns and complaints. While we apologise for any delay, we appreciate your patience,” she said.

Mrs Adewale commended the FCCPC for organising the forum and noted that Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company has been collaboratinh with regulators over the years, particularly in addressing safety and metering issues.

She listed some of the consequences of energy theft and vandalism and advised consumers to stay away from such act and adher to good practices.

The Area Inspecting Engineer for Ikeja at the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency, Mr Salami Afeez, affirmed the ongoing partnership with FCCPC to fulfill their mandate.

He urged customers to report complaints promptly by using the NEMSA official email available on the website for proper communication and complaint resolution.
Some of the consumers who narrated their experiences said the forum has brought them face to face with the service providers and regulators. and lamented that power supply situation nationwide has gone from bad to worse since the beginning of this year.