The Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) has dismissed allegations of extortion linked to the ongoing STS-2 meter upgrade, emphasizing that the process is entirely free for its customers. The clarification follows reports that some individuals were exploiting unsuspecting citizens by demanding payments for the meter upgrade.
EKEDC, in a statement, reassured its customers and the public that no fees should be paid for the upgrade to the STS-2 platform, which ensures continued meter functionality and recharging. The management stated, “Our attention has been drawn to the activities of some unscrupulous members of the society demanding payment for the STS-2 meter upgrade process. We hereby inform our customers and the general public that the STS-2 meter upgrade is free and EKEDC would not make demands of anyone to pay for the upgrade.”
The STS-2 meter upgrade is intended to enhance the functionality and security of prepaid meters, but EKEDC emphasized that no customer should provide financial or other forms of gratification during the process.
Meanwhile, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a stern warning to Distribution Companies (DisCos), including Ikeja Electric and EKEDC, concerning the proposed replacement of Unistar meters. The commission instructed all activities related to the replacement of Unistar meters to cease immediately, highlighting concerns about potential violations of consumer rights.
A statement from FCCPC, signed by the Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, outlined that the directive to halt the replacement of Unistar meters remains enforceable. It noted, “Contrary to recent rumours, the approval of new meter prices by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has no connection with the proposed replacement of Unistar meters by Ikeja Electric and EKEDC. The planned replacement has been invalidated by both the FCCPC and NERC.”
The commission further stated that Ikeja and Eko DisCos must comply with NERC’s Order No. NERC/246/2021, which stipulates structured replacement procedures for faulty and obsolete meters. The order mandates that replacements should be done promptly and at no cost to the consumer, ensuring no disruptions to service and preventing the issuance of estimated bills during installation delays.
The FCCPC warned of severe penalties for any breach of this directive, emphasizing that consumer rights must be protected and upheld in line with existing laws. Consumers were encouraged to report any attempts by DisCos to disregard these regulations by contacting the FCCPC’s dedicated electricity issue hotline.
