The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has urged electricity distribution companies to adopt clear and enforceable arrangements when consumers or communities contribute money to transformers and other distribution infrastructure. The appeal came during an electricity complaints town hall in Ikorodu, Lagos.
Representing the commission’s leadership, deputy director Omagu Nwachukwu said consumer-funded projects should be governed by transparent processes so contributors receive the benefits promised. FCCPC chief executive Tunji Bello, in remarks delivered at the event, identified estimated billing, metering delays, disputed charges, disconnections and poor service as recurring sources of complaints in the Ikeja and Eko electricity distribution areas.
The commission reminded customers of their rights to appropriate metering, fair billing and complaint escalation, while also urging them to pay legitimate bills and avoid meter bypass or illegal connections. Ikeja Electric officials said the company had metered about 85 per cent of its customers and that properly documented community investments could be recovered through energy credits.
Representatives of Ikeja Electric also complained about equipment vandalism and its financial consequences. Community leader Adeniran Ogunbanwo acknowledged some improvement in supply but requested clearer records of transformers removed and replaced. The discussion highlighted the need for written agreements, transparent accounting and accessible dispute resolution whenever residents finance public-facing electricity assets.
