Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Aba Power Limited Electricity’s proposal for a tariff hike sparked heated debate at the hearing organized by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, in Abuja.
The public hearing, which aimed to gather feedback on the proposed increase, attracted business owners, residents, and consumer advocates from Aba, who voiced their objections.
The Managing Director, Aba Power Limited Electricity, APLE, Barr. Ugochukwu Opiegbo, defended the proposal, arguing that the tariff increase was necessary to improve power infrastructure and service delivery in Aba.
“This adjustment will enable us to sustain and enhance the quality of electricity supply in Aba. We are committed to ensuring that every customer is metered and that our infrastructure is upgraded to meet demand.”
However, consumer groups and intervenors voiced strong concerns, particularly over the quality of customer service, which they say has not kept pace with the rising costs.
“We are already paying too much for a service that is often unreliable. If this increase goes through, we expect substantial improvements in service, not just promises,” said one Aba business owner.
Another resident from Aba added, “How can they justify increasing the tariff when we barely get power for most of the day? This is a serious concern.”
In response, APLE assured the public that improvements were underway, including infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing the power distribution network.
“We are already working to upgrade our system, and the revenue from this tariff increase will support these efforts,” Opiegbo explained.
NERC Vice Chairman, Musiliu Oseni, acknowledged the concerns raised, emphasizing that the Commission would carefully consider all feedback before making a final decision.
“Our goal is to ensure that any tariff review is fair and reflects the needs of consumers and the realities on the ground. We are committed to making a decision that will benefit both consumers and service providers.”
