Aminu Muhammad-Bunza, Sarkin Bunza of Bunza Local Government, Kebbi, says the refusal of the Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) to adopt new technology will soon push it to the brink of extinction.

“There is no doubt this is a great threat to the existence of KEDCO,” said Mr Muhammad-Bunz at a public sensitisation on efficient electricity use and rights of customers organised by the Kebbi Development Forum (KDF) in Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday.

The event, which generated a heated debate on epileptic power supply, low voltage, billing systems, and metering, among others, is part of a sensitisation tour of emirates in the state by the Kebbi Electricity Forum (KEF).

The programme, which was designed to raise awareness among electricity consumers, was organised by KDF in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA) and other stakeholders.

The traditional ruler lamented that the company not only refused to key into the new technological changes but also is “not transparent, it’s not accountable, and it’s neither fair nor honest in dealing with its customers.

“Our electricity distribution companies are still analogue. As I am talking, others are taking advantage of technology, and many communities are now entering into partnerships with solar power supply companies for a 24-hour power supply.

He advised the company to either adjust or face being chased out of business soon.

In his speech, the chairman of KDF, Usman Abubakar, said Nigerians are ready to pay electricity bills, especially with efficient supply.

“We are here to discuss problems, prospects, if any, the need to maintain ownership of all electrical installations, and guard them against any form of vandalism, apart from educating the public on their rights and privileges,” he said.

He commended Governor Nasir Idris for releasing N650 million for the purchase of a 15MVA transformer to boost power supply to the state, as well as monthly support of N150 million to KEDCO.

Nasiru Karofi, director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in the state, said the sensitisation was one of the mandates of NOA, adding, “It’s our mandate to relate people with government and relate government with people.”

In his contribution, the regional manager of KEDCO in Kebbi, Sani Muhammad-Makinu, acknowledged the lingering problems of power in Nigeria.

He stressed the need for people to pay for the electricity they consume to enable the company to pay for the power it receives from the generating company.

Commenting on buying electrical equipment for the company, the regional manager insisted that there was a laid-down procedure before any equipment bought could be refunded.

“For KEDCO to repay any electrical equipment purchased by an individual or community, before installation of such equipment, an agreement must be reached between the company and the donor or donors,” he said.

Contributing, Abdussalam Muhammad, chairman, National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Birnin Kebbi Forum, encouraged the public to report electricity complaints to their office in Birnin Kebbi after lodging a complaint with KEDCO without positive results.

He insisted that all electricity distribution companies must ensure customer billing based on what they have consumed, adding that every customer has the right to enjoy electricity.

The sensitisation event was attended by five chairmen from Kebbi Central Senatorial District, politicians, traditional institutions, religious leaders, artisans, educationists, technocrats, and women and youth organisations.

(NAN)