Jos Electricity Distribution Plc (JED) confronts an alarming rise in vandalism, reporting daily attacks on 50 transformers within its operational territories.
Friday Akpopi, the head of JED’s customer care, highlighted the crisis in Jos during a Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC)-sponsored forum. “Transformers are prime targets, often hit again just two weeks post-repair,” Akpopi revealed, urging customers to protect local electrical installations proactively.
In response to directives from the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), JED is initiating community consultations. These engagements strive to cultivate local stewardship for electrical facilities and curb ongoing vandalism, a move Akpopi believes will significantly reduce related power outages.
Addressing meter availability, Akpopi assured quick installations for awaiting customers, revealing negotiations with vendors to expedite the process.
According to a report by the People’s Gazette, FCCPC’s CEO, Babatunde Irukera, represented by executive commissioner Adamu Abdullahi, acknowledged the slew of consumer grievances triggering the forum. He emphasized the commission’s role as a mediator, facilitating dialogues between power stakeholders and aggrieved customers.
“The forum isn’t just a temporary fix. We’re setting resolution timelines for lingering issues, enhancing JED’s customer service efficiency in the process,” Irukera explained.
Kaneng Gwom from NERC advocated for consumer education. “Understanding NERC regulations empowers customers, streamlining complaint procedures,” she noted.
The forum, supported by the Mac Arthur Foundation, forms part of FCCPC’s enduring commitment to bolstering its Electricity Complaint Resolution Platform, established in 2021, ensuring service quality within JED’s jurisdiction remains under stringent surveillance.
