Electricity consumers in Lagos have backed the state government’s planned phase-out of electricity band classification, describing the current Band A tariff regime as exploitative and insensitive to consumers battling rising economic hardship.
The consumers, under the aegis of the All Electricity Consumers Protection Forum, were reacting to concerns raised by electricity distribution companies over the Lagos State Government’s proposal to abolish electricity customer banding in the state.
The debate followed comments by the Lagos State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Biodun Ogunleye, who said at a ministerial press briefing in Alausa, Ikeja, recently, that the state was working towards eliminating electricity band classification and ensuring a stable power supply for all residents.
In April 2024, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission categorised electricity consumers into Bands A to E based on the number of hours of electricity supplied daily.
Under the arrangement, Band A customers, who are expected to receive a minimum of 20 hours of electricity supply daily, pay cost-reflective tariffs, while consumers in lower bands continue to enjoy subsidies with fewer supply hours.