The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission on Tuesday ordered electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) to replace Unistar Meters without burdening affected consumers with estimated billing.
The Commission said this in Abuja through the Director, Special Duties (& Strategic Communication) Ondaje Ijagwu.
It said the move is based on concerns surrounding the phase-out of Unistar prepaid meters by Ikeja Electric Plc and other electricity distribution companies (DisCos), following widespread consumer complaints.
This, he said, follows a recent announcement by Ikeja Electric warning Unistar prepaid meters users, first deployed over a decade ago, to cease being operational from November 14, 2024.
The DisCos cited technological upgrades and the Token Identifier (TID) rollover issue as reasons behind the Unistar exit in the electricity industry.
“The FCCPC has observed rising anxiety among consumers over potential financial burdens, particularly whether they will be required to cover the cost of replacement meters.
“Further concerns relate to the possibility of consumers being placed on arbitrary estimated billing during this transition, which would violate existing rules.
“These concerns have been worsened by insufficient communication from the DisCos about the phase-out process, leading to uncertainty and distrust,” the statement said.
The FCCPC said it is actively engaging key stakeholders, including the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency and the eleven DisCos.
The goal, he noted, would seamlessly make the metering process transparent and accountable while protecting consumer interests.
Also, he said discussions with Ikeja Electric and other stakeholders to clarify the phase-out process and ensure that DisCos bear the cost of replacing phased-out meters, without imposing extra charges on consumers would be initiated.
It added, “The Commission will also work to ensure that DisCos comply with regulatory guidelines, preventing consumers from being unfairly charged or placed on estimated billing.”