For several months now, Lafia, the capital city of Nasarawa State, has been plunged into persistent darkness due to the apparent failure of the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) to provide regular power supply.
This unfortunate situation has continued unabated, subjecting residents, businesses and institutions to untold hardship.
Even more disturbing is the fact that many electricity consumers in Lafia continue to receive exorbitant bills despite the absence of power supply.
Customers are routinely charged on estimated billing, paying heavily for electricity they do not consume.
This practice is not only unjust but also undermines public trust in the power distribution system.
Small and medium-scale enterprises, which form the backbone of the local economy, are among the worst affected. Artisans, traders, health facilities and students now rely heavily on costly alternatives such as generators, increasing operational costs and worsening the already harsh economic realities faced by citizens.
As the state capital, Lafia deserves better. A city that hosts government institutions, hospitals, schools and businesses cannot thrive in prolonged darkness.
Reliable electricity supply is not a luxury; it is a basic necessity for development, security and improved quality of life.
AEDC must, as a matter of urgency, address the persistent power outage in Lafia and provide clear explanations to consumers on the causes of the prolonged blackout.
The company should also halt the issuance of estimated bills where there is no supply and ensure transparent, fair and accurate billing in line with regulatory standards.
Furthermore, relevant regulatory authorities, including the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), must intervene decisively to protect consumers from exploitation and compel AEDC to live up to its responsibilities.
The people of Lafia have shown patience for far too long. It is time for AEDC to restore power, respect its customers, and justify its mandate as a public utility provider.
Continued silence and inaction only deepen public frustration and erode confidence in the power sector.
