Residents of several communities in Lagos State, Nigeria, are up in arms over Ikeja Electric’s recent decision to migrate them from tariff Band B to Band A without their consent.
The proposed change, which is set to take effect on September 1, 2024, will significantly increase electricity tariffs, raising the cost per kilowatt hour from N63.18 to N209.76.
The affected communities—Genesis, Mercury, Peace & Progress, Harmony, Akinola West, and Akinola Community—have expressed strong opposition to the migration, citing the lack of consultation and the potential financial strain it will impose on households and businesses alike.
Community Outcry
A memo circulating within the estates reveals that Ikeja Electric is currently conducting tests on the sustainability of its transmission and distribution infrastructure as part of its preparations for the migration.
The communities served by the Arigbanla Feeder, however, are not convinced by the rationale provided by the electricity distribution company. They argue that the proposed tariff hike is not only astronomical but also comes at a time when many residents are already struggling with the high cost of living.
“The general platform of the estate is awash with information about this matter, and some of the information is already on this platform,” the memo reads, reflecting the growing anxiety among residents. “Ikeja Electric is conducting tests… in preparation for our migration… This migration comes with an astronomical increase in tariff.”
Legal Action on the Horizon
In response to Ikeja Electric’s plans, the affected communities have been holding daily meetings for the past week to discuss their options. The consensus among the estates is clear: they will not accept the tariff migration without a fight. As a result, the communities have resolved to seek legal recourse.
“It was resolved by the Estates aggrieved that a court order should be sought and obtained to stop the imminent migration,” the memo continues. The details of the court action are expected to be shared with residents shortly.
This legal move underscores the communities’ determination to prevent Ikeja Electric from implementing what they perceive as an unjust and potentially unlawful change. The residents argue that the company cannot unilaterally impose such a significant increase in tariffs without first obtaining the consent of those affected.
Calls for Transparency and Unity
In light of the escalating tensions, community leaders have called for greater transparency and unity among residents. They have urged members of the community to use their real names on the estate’s communication platform to foster accountability and ensure that everyone’s voice is heard during this critical period.
“The use of nicknames encourages anonymity, which is not helpful and does not assist us in knowing our neighbors,” the memo states, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in the face of the proposed changes.
The Road Ahead
As the deadline for the migration looms, the outcome of the communities’ legal action will be crucial in determining whether Ikeja Electric can proceed with its plans or if the residents’ concerns will force the company to reconsider its approach. For now, the affected communities remain resolute in their opposition, unwilling to accept a tariff increase that they believe is being imposed without due process or consideration for their financial well-being.
The unfolding situation serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles between electricity distribution companies and consumers in Nigeria, where issues of transparency, fairness, and accountability continue to dominate the discourse.
