Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution, PHEDC has raised the alarm over increasing number of meter bypass by its customers in Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River and Rivers State.
Acting Manager, Corporate Communications, PHED, Mrs. Chioma Aninwe, warned that anyone caught with such illegal practice will be disconnected with immediate effect, in line with the guidelines of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC.
Aninwe explained that customers illegally bypass their prepaid meters, by passing wires through their roofs and ceilings, before connecting to their meters, thereby preventing their prepaid meters from capturing their actual energy consumption.
She announced that from April 1st, 2021 the Disco will go on aggressive disconnections of customers who failed to adhere to standards.
“PHEDC has observed with dismay the dangerous trend among its metered customer in Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross-River and Rivers state; which involves the illegal passing of wires through the roof and ceiling before connecting to a prepaid meter.
“We wish to state that this unsafe act is dangerous to both the customer and the people living around. We therefore advise customers to immediately desist from this practice as defaulters will be disconnected according to NERC regulations.
“Also note that PHED will not be held liable for any damage or loss of lives and properties that may occur from the continuous practice of this illegal act.
“Disconnection of customers who fail to adhere to the standard will commence on April 1,2021.”
