… warns customers against unauthorized payments for STS 2.0 meter upgrades

Oredola Adeola

Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) has attributed unplanned outages often witnessed in Ajah, Sangotedo, Ibeju-Lekki, and other areas within its Business Unit to recurring infrastructure theft and illegal connections, urging customers and community leaders to collaborate in tackling these issues.

Mrs. Rekhiat Momoh, Acting Chief Executive Officer of EKEDC, made this appeal at a Customer Engagement Forum held Thursday at the Ajah Business Unit, which included participants from Ajah Ilaje, Oke-Ira, Addo, Sangotedo, Farapack Estate, Elemoro, Ibeju, Royal Gardens Maine, and Medallion in Lagos.

Representing EKEDC’s Acting CEO at the event, Mr. Joseph Esenwa, Chief Finance Officer emphasized that safeguarding power infrastructure should be a shared responsibility, as it would enhance electricity supply, drive socio-economic growth, and generate job opportunities for the community.

Momoh issued a stern warning against illegal connections, emphasizing that individuals involved in energy theft would face prosecution.

She condemned the recurring theft and vandalism of power infrastructure, which she explained disrupts service and results in unplanned outages.

Such actions, she said, hinder community development and should be addressed through collective efforts.

“Improving power supply will foster socio-economic growth and create jobs,” Momoh stated, encouraging customers to work together with EKEDC in combating these crimes and urging customers to report any suspicious activity, especially efforts to bypass meters.

In preparation for the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations, EKEDC has affirmed its commitment to ensuring reliable power supply for its customers, minimizing interruptions to enhance the festive experience.

The acting CEO explained that the company recognizes the heightened demand for electricity during this season and has deployed all necessary staff, task teams, and materials to respond promptly to any issues.

“We aim to provide uninterrupted power for customers to fully enjoy the season.

“EKEDC is counting on coordinated efforts from generation companies and the Transmission Company of Nigeria to help maintain seamless electricity supply,” Momoh stated.

She also explained that the customers engagement forum for instance served as a platform to foster collaboration between EKEDC and its customers, allowing for dialogue on challenges and service improvements.

Momoh assured attendees that EKEDC is dedicated to addressing issues such as transformer failures and load shedding, with plans to resolve complaints by the end of 2024.

Acting CEO has further urged customers not to make any payments to anyone for the Standard Transfer Specification (STS) 2.0-meter upgrade, explaining that the process is fully covered by EKEDC.

She urged customers to complete the STS 2.0-meter upgrade by Nov. 24 to avoid being blocked from the system.

According to her, the token identifier is a secret code hidden in all energy token customers use on prepaid electricity meters, while STS is the global standard for the transfer of electricity and other utility prepayment tokens.

She explained that customers must upgrade their existing meters to continue accepting tokens, as outdated meters will need to be replaced at the customer’s expense.

“The upgrade is necessary due to the impending expiration of the current vending platform and aims to provide a more efficient metering system,” Momoh stated.

Momoh reminded customers to load any previously purchased tokens before starting the upgrade process, as old tokens will no longer work on upgraded meters.

“For assistance, customers can visit any EKEDC District or Zonal office, where help desks will be available, and staff will assist on Saturdays, Nov. 2 and 9.

She stressed that the upgrade is free and urged customers not to pay anyone for the service.

Momoh reassured EKEDC customers of the company’s commitment to enhancing metering and service delivery, urging all stakeholders to collaborate toward a more efficient power supply system.

Regarding bill payments, she highlighted the importance of timely settlements, explaining that they enable EKEDC to sustain reliable service.

Momoh also encouraged customers to take advantage of various payment options, including online platforms, to simplify the process.

Mr Babatunde Lasaki, General Manager of Corporate Communication and Strategy, has therefore reiterated that customers should avoid making payments to private accounts or bribing staff for services.

He emphasised EKEDC’s zero-tolerance policy towards illegal activities and encouraged reporting any unethical behavior through secure channels.

Alhaji Mohammed Ali, a customer, voiced frustration over the current billing system, describing it as excessive.

He expressed concerns about insufficient metering and the heavy reliance on estimated billing, which he believes undermines the purpose of power sector privatization.

To address these issues, Ali proposed forming a task force of EKEDC officials and security personnel to monitor power supply conditions and strengthen efforts against vandalism and energy theft.

Mr. Joseph Edenye, a resident of Destiny Homes Estate, emphasized that it is EKEDC’s responsibility to address faults in distribution facilities, including transformers, and urged prompt responses to issues.

He called on residents to support EKEDC’s efforts in safeguarding its infrastructure.

Edenye also expressed concern about certain residents’ associations using electricity issues as a way to collect money from unsuspecting residents, and he encouraged customers to directly reach out to EKEDC when faults occur.

“EKEDC, as a private organization, has consistently responded to faults in our estate over the past three years,” he noted, commending the regular town hall meetings that offer an opportunity to address important customer issues promptly.

Edenye further appealed to EKEDC management to provide staff training for service improvements and to reduce reliance on ad hoc workers for a more consistent service experience.