By Chukwudi Obasi, Abuja
The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government through the Ministry of Power to declare Distribution Companies (DisCos) in Nigeria as non-state actors
It urged immediate measures to address “their reckless actions, threatening the nation’s economy.”
The House also urged the DisCos to undergo recapitalisation of not less than N500bn.
It said only those with the required financial muzzles to provide maximum satisfaction to consumers should be allowed to continue operating.
The House mandated the Committee on Power to investigate the activities of the DisCos with the intent of holding them accountable and safeguarding consumer rights.
The Committee is also to examine the implementation of the stricter regulations governing the operations of DisCos to ensure transparency and fairness in dealings with Consumers;
These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion yesterday titled “Need to Address to Activities of Distribution Companies (DisCos) in Nigeria,” which was moved by Ibrahim Isiaka.
The House noted that the activities of Distribution Companies (DisCos) in the country and their recent actions threaten the Nigerian populace’s economic stability and welfare.
It also noted that Nigerian consumers paid for electricity meter installation. Still, DisCos are demanding additional payments to replace these meters under dubious pretences, undermining consumer trust and exacerbating financial burdens.
The House worries that consumers are being coerced into paying for meters they have earlier financed, causing financial strain on households and businesses already facing economic challenges.
It also worried about Discos’s sabotage of economic development, where essential services are used against citizens intended to serve, thereby stifling growth and development.
The House was concerned that despite constant regulatory oversight and demand for accountability by the Committee on Power from these companies, DISCOs remained recalcitrant in operating with impunity and disregard for consumer rights
It recognised that the DisCos’ actions pose a significant threat to Nigeria’s economic stability and citizens’ welfare.
The House recognised the need to stand against injustices and prioritised constituents’ needs and rights.
