Kogi Commission Clarifies Role Amid Poor Power Supply, Tariff Hike

The chairman/chief executive officer of the Kogi Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC), Engr. Ibrahim Abdwaaris, has clarified the difference between KERC and Kogi Electricity Distribution Limited (KEDL) following growing public concerns over poor electricity supply and the recent hike in electricity tariffs.

Abdwaaris said KERC was established under the Electricity Act of 2023 and is responsible for oversight and regulation of electricity in the state.

He explained that KEDL, on the other hand, is the service provider responsible for distributing electricity to homes and businesses and not KERC.

Through the general manager, Market, Rate and Competition, Mallam Suleiman Isah, the KERC boss said his organisation plays an intermediary role between electricity consumers and KEDL, ensuring fair and transparent governance of the electricity market.

He stressed that the commission ensures KEDL does not make windfall profits at the consumers’ expense.

Abdwaaris added that KERC also safeguards KEDL’s infrastructure and promotes prompt payment for energy consumed, supporting business continuity and prosperity in Kogi.

Addressing concerns over the recent electricity tariff increase, the commission clarified that it was not responsible for the hike.

However, it assured consumers that KERC was working with KEDL to develop a fair and transparent tariff structure, enabling the people to pay accurately for the energy they consume.

Also, Mallam Ihiezu Ismaila, assistant general manager, Market, Competition and Rate, apologised on behalf of KEDL to the people for the recent power supply disruptions, assuring that KERC remains committed to protecting both consumers’ and KEDL’s interests.