‘Band A Power Supply is a Scam’ – Analyst Raises Alarm Over Electricity Classification
Energy analyst and media executive Ikechukwu Amaechi has questioned the integrity of Nigeria’s electricity banding system, describing the Band A classification as misleading and ineffective. Amaechi, the Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of Acclaim Communications Limited, made these statements during an interview on Breakfast Central, a morning show on News Central.
He explained that although he lives and runs his business in an area designated as Band A — supposedly guaranteed a minimum of 20 hours of electricity daily — the actual experience falls far short. “My bill jumped from about N62 per kilowatt-hour to N206 per kilowatt-hour, yet the power supply remains erratic,” he said.
Tariffs Increase While Trust Declines
Amaechi’s experience reflects a broader frustration among Nigerian consumers, especially those under the Band A category, who feel shortchanged by higher electricity tariffs without improved power delivery.
According to the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Band A customers should receive no less than 20 hours of power each day. However, several anecdotal accounts and social media posts reveal a different picture, with residents complaining of daily blackouts lasting up to 14 hours or more.
“I feel robbed,” said a Band A resident in Abuja who preferred to remain anonymous. “They claimed we would be prioritized, but since the tariff change, the situation in my area has worsened.”
Demand for Government Intervention
Despite growing complaints, NERC has yet to provide a clear response to the allegations that Distribution Companies (DisCos) are failing to meet service commitments while charging higher rates. Calls are intensifying for the federal government to audit the Band A classification system thoroughly.
Many stakeholders believe only areas consistently receiving the promised level of electricity should be required to pay premium tariffs.
