From Uchenna Ezeadigwe
Awkaap-energy
Residents in Anambra, particularly Awka, the state capital who are electricity consumers have urged FirstPower Distribution Company to improve the supply of prepaid Meters as majority of them are yet to receive the meters. They lamented that the increase in estimated billing continues to rise beyond imagination.
They made the call during a public consultation on draft regulations expected to shape the state’s electricity market, in Nnewi.
According to some residents who spoke to newsmen disclosed that inaccurate billing has remained one of the most persistent challenges facing households, with many insisting they are being charged for power they do not receive.
Speaking shorlty after the meeting, social activist, Mr. Osita Obi said the issue has lingered so much that it is high time customers pay for electricity supplied rather than the extortion.
He argued that estimated billing has created tension between users and First Power, the firm responsible for power distribution in the state. “People are not asking for more than what is fair. They want to be billed based on consumption, not estimates.”
He added that wider deployment of prepaid meters would help reduce disagreements and restore confidence in the system.
Responding to the concerns, Its Managing Director, Mr. Okechukwu Okafor disclosed that First Power is working to speed up meter installations and that the company has established a meter laboratory in Onitsha to improve supply and reduce delays.
He noted that previously, meter requests were processed outside the state, a system he said slowed down installations. “With the facility now in place, we can deliver meters more quickly,” he explained, adding that customers who complete payment could be metered within three weeks.
Mr Okafor, however, said, the new plant can produce up to 2,500 meters daily, although rising demand from new buildings and customers remains a challenge. Adding that efforts are under way to stabilise the system within 18 months and to ensure fair pricing and improved service delivery.
Its chairman, Frank Nwoye Okafor, said the commission does not supply electricity but sets standards to protect consumers and guide operators. “Power may be expensive, but it must meet minimum standards,” he said, urging residents to formally report complaints.
He added that public participation is key to resolving challenges in the sector.
According to the commission’s Vice Chairman, Geofrey Okechukwu, he said the ongoing reforms are backed by the Anambra State Electricity Regulatory Law, 2025, which gives the commission powers to oversee supply and enforce compliance. “Feedback from the consultation will help shape final regulations. The aim is to ensure electricity is available, accessible and affordable,”
The forum, he noted, also provided an opportunity for stakeholders to define their roles in improving the sector.
Anosike Emmanuel, Executive Commissioner for Customer Protection, adviced that complaints should first be reported to the distribution company. If unresolved, they can be escalated to the commission.
Pointing out that minor issues should be addressed within two days, while more complex faults, such as transformer failures, may take up to a week.
