Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) has firmly denied allegations of extorting customers regarding the ongoing upgrade to the Standard Transfer Specification (STS) 2-meter system, asserting that the process is entirely free.
This statement comes in response to reports of some individuals soliciting payments from customers for the upgrade, which EKEDC emphasizes should incur no costs.
In a recent announcement, EKEDC reiterated that customers should not offer any financial or other forms of compensation during the upgrade process. "Our attention has been drawn to the activities of some unscrupulous members of society demanding payment for the STS-2 meter upgrade process," the company stated.
They urged customers to report such incidents, reinforcing their commitment to ensuring a seamless transition to the new metering system without financial burden on consumers.
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has also weighed in on the matter, warning all Distribution Companies (DISCOs) to halt activities related to the replacement of Unistar meters.
The FCCPC emphasized that any attempts by EKEDC or Ikeja Electric to proceed with these replacements would face serious repercussions, citing specific sections of the FCCPA Act 2018.
In a statement, FCCPC Director Ondaje Ijagwu clarified that recent rumors suggesting a connection between new meter pricing approved by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and the Unistar meter replacements are unfounded.
He reiterated that both EKEDC and Ikeja Electric must comply with NERC's orders regarding meter replacements, which stipulate that such actions must be conducted without cost to consumers.
Consumers are encouraged to contact the FCCPC directly if they encounter any issues related to these directives.
