Anambra Power Crisis: Police Urge Dialogue as Residents Plan Protest Over Prolonged Blackout and Rising Electricity Tariffs!

Reported by Musa Antiketu (Journalist) | Sele Media

AfricaAuthorities in southeastern Nigeria are calling for calm and constructive engagement as residents of Anambra State prepare for a protest over persistent electricity outages, controversial estimated billing practices, and recent tariff increases by the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company.The Nigeria Police Force has urged citizens to prioritise dialogue with authorities and power sector stakeholders instead of taking to the streets, warning that demonstrations could escalate tensions if not managed peacefully.Police Call for Engagement Over Demonstration In a statement released by the command’s spokesperson, Ikenga Tochukwu, the police acknowledged the frustration among residents but appealed for restraint while discussions with relevant institutions continue.According to the statement, law enforcement authorities are committed to maintaining public order while encouraging community leaders, civil society groups, and electricity consumers to pursue lawful channels for addressing grievances.“The command recognizes the hardship faced by residents due to the prolonged outage and other electricity related concerns. However, dialogue remains the most constructive path toward resolving these issues,” the police said.Mounting Frustration Over Power Supply Communities across Anambra State have reported extended periods of electricity blackout in recent weeks, disrupting businesses, household activities, and small-scale industries. Many residents also complain about the continued use of estimated billing a long standing issue in Nigeria’s power sector which they say often results in inflated electricity charges.The frustration has been compounded by tariff adjustments introduced under reforms supervised by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, the federal body responsible for regulating the country’s electricity market.Consumer advocacy groups argue that billing increases without a corresponding improvement in power supply place additional financial strain on households and small businesses already grappling with economic pressures.Power Sector Challenges PersistNigeria’s electricity sector has struggled with persistent structural challenges since the partial privatisation of the industry in 2013. Distribution companies such as the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company are responsible for delivering electricity to consumers across several southeastern states, including Anambra State, Enugu State, Ebonyi State, Abia State, and Imo State.Despite ongoing reforms and regulatory oversight by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, supply deficits, infrastructure limitations, and disputes over billing practices remain major concerns across the country.Balancing Protest Rights and Public Safety While peaceful protest is protected under Nigeria’s constitution, the police emphasized the importance of ensuring that demonstrations do not disrupt public order or threaten safety.Security officials said they are open to facilitating communication between residents, electricity distribution companies, and regulatory authorities to help address grievances surrounding the ongoing outages and tariff concerns.Observers say the situation reflects broader nationwide frustrations with electricity supply, a recurring issue affecting households, manufacturers, and small businesses across Africa’s largest economy.

Sources:The Punch Vanguard Newspaper The Guardian Nigeria Channels Television

Antiketu Musa

Musa Antiketu is a journalist with Sele Media Africa from Kogi State, Nigeria, driven by a deep commitment to truth and integrity in reporting. She is passionate about crafting compelling narratives on current affairs, sports, and trending international news, bringing clarity and insight to complex issues. Currently pursuing a degree in History and International Studies at Prince Abubakar Audu University, she combines strong research ability with effective communication skills to produce engaging, impactful content that advances organizational goals while fostering her continuous professional growth.

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