A recent electricity billing cycle has left consumers of ABA Power Limited reeling, as they received bills with drastic and unprecedented rate increases. The February 2025 bills, reflecting energy usage for January 2025, have sparked widespread outrage and desperation among consumers.
Consumers on the 33KVA band saw their bills skyrocket from ₦49,200 to ₦140,000 per month, a staggering 184% increase. This drastic hike has left many consumers struggling to make ends meet. Those on the 11KVA band faced a 97% hike, with bills jumping from ₦22,700 to ₦44,800. The sudden and drastic increases have raised questions about the transparency and fairness of ABA Power Limited’s billing system.
Mr. Nnodimele Ikechi, a consumer on the 33KVA band, expressed his dissatisfaction and frustration with the billing system. “Despite having electricity for most days in January 2025, the billing system is unexplainable,” he said. Ikechi had applied and paid for a prepaid meter but was told to wait indefinitely, leaving him with no choice but to continue receiving estimated bills.
A civil servant, who wished to remain anonymous, lamented that the new electricity bill of ₦140,000 exceeded his monthly salary, even with the new minimum wage of ₦70,000. “How can I afford to pay such an outrageous amount?” he asked. “It’s unacceptable and unsustainable.”
The outrageous billing has driven some consumers to desperate measures, with some resorting to disconnecting their electricity supply. Others are seeking alternative energy sources or exploring ways to reduce their energy consumption. The situation has sparked fears of a looming energy crisis, with consumers struggling to access affordable and reliable electricity.
Consumers are demanding transparency and accountability from ABA Power Limited, calling for explanations for the rate hikes and urgent action to address the unsustainable billing structure. The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and other relevant authorities are being urged to intervene and ensure that ABA Power Limited operates within established guidelines.
The implications of ABA Power Limited’s actions extend beyond individual consumers. The increased electricity costs will likely have a ripple effect on businesses, industries, and the broader economy. As consumers struggle to cope with the rate hikes, there may be a shift towards alternative energy sources or increased energy conservation efforts.
ABA Power Limited’s decision to implement drastic rate hikes has sparked widespread outrage and desperation among consumers. The company must engage with affected parties, provide transparency in its billing process, and work towards finding a sustainable solution. Regulatory bodies must also intervene to ensure that the interests of consumers are protected and that ABA Power Limited operates within established guidelines.
