The Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) has announced its intention to pursue legal action against electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) that neglect to upgrade outdated and unsafe installations within their franchise areas.
his decision follows a two-month enforcement notice issued to the 11 DisCos, urging them to rectify safety violations in their distribution networks.
The enforcement notice was partly prompted by a tragic electrocution incident in Calabar last year, which highlighted the urgent need for improved infrastructure. During an oversight visit by the Senate Committee on Power,
NEMSA’s Managing Director and Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation, Engr. Tukur Tahir Aliyu, stated that while some DisCos have complied with the directive by submitting plans to replace aging installations, others have failed to respond.
“We have issued an enforcement directive to all the utility companies regarding various violations we observed across the country,” Aliyu explained.
“The timeline has elapsed, and a number of them have responded positively, outlining their plans for rectification. However, there are still some that have not taken any action.”
NEMSA’s decision to initiate legal proceedings underscores its commitment to ensuring the safety and reliability of Nigeria’s electricity supply.
The agency’s actions aim to hold DisCos accountable and compel them to invest in necessary upgrades that protect consumers and enhance service delivery.
As the legal clock ticks down, the agency is prepared to take a firm stance against any DisCos that continue to disregard safety protocols. This move is expected to resonate throughout the sector, emphasizing the importance of compliance and the potential consequences of negligence.
