Residents of Umuahia in Abia State are groaning under rising electricity costs, with many saying monthly power bills now rival or even exceed what they pay for rent.
The growing frustration is linked to a mix of high tariffs, estimated billing, and worsening power supply, leaving households and small businesses struggling to cope.
Sharp Increase in Bills
Findings show that electricity bills have surged dramatically in recent months. Consumers who previously paid between ₦6,000 and ₦14,000 now receive charges ranging from ₦50,000 to ₦70,000 monthly.
This spike has coincided with a decline in electricity supply. With rent for a three-bedroom apartment averaging between ₦350,000 and ₦550,000 annually, many residents say electricity now costs more than shelter when calculated monthly.
Those without prepaid meters remain the most affected, as they are subjected to estimated billing under the Band A tariff system.
Residents Struggle to Cope
Many low-income earners, particularly civil servants, say the situation has become unbearable. A resident, Harrison Ogbonnaya, revealed that his electricity bills now consume most of his income, with monthly charges exceeding ₦50,000 despite irregular supply.
Another resident, Obinna, described the situation as outrageous, stressing that electricity should not cost more than rent.
An ICT professional, Ndubuisi Odimba, warned that the crisis is already affecting businesses, with some forced to shut down. He urged the government to consider alternatives such as solar energy.
Businesses Feel the Impact
Small business owners are also under pressure. A business centre operator reported paying between ₦65,000 and ₦80,000 monthly despite low usage, blaming estimated billing for the inflated charges.
Similarly, a metal fabricator said he pays as much as ₦90,000 monthly for erratic electricity, describing the situation as unfair and discouraging.
Outrage Over Poor Supply
Residents say power outages now last for days, and when electricity is restored, it is available for only a few hours. Many accuse the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company of exploitation, insisting they are “paying for darkness.”
Governor Alex Otti has ruled out subsidies but emphasized the need for reliable power, noting that consistent supply would justify the cost.
DisCo Explains Tariff Hike
The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company said the higher bills reflect the Band A tariff introduced after subsidy removal, adding that electricity consumers are now paying the actual cost of supply.
The company also cited gas shortages as a major factor affecting power generation nationwide.
Metering Challenges Persist
Access to prepaid meters remains a major issue. With costs put at about ₦130,000 for single-phase and ₦230,000 for three-phase meters, many residents cannot afford them and are left with estimated billing.
The Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency confirmed that the state government is yet to complete the takeover of electricity distribution in Umuahia, noting that the process is still ongoing.
Residents Demand Relief
Despite official explanations, residents are calling for urgent intervention. For many in Umuahia, electricity has become a heavy financial burden, raising concerns about survival and the sustainability of small businesses.
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