New Electricity Law Imposes 3 Years Jail Term Penalty For Offenders
THE updated Electricity Act of 2023, has imposed tougher consequences on individuals engaging in power theft, illegal electricity connections, meter tampering, or vandalism of electrical infrastructure.
The Electricity Power Reform Act of 2005 is replaced by this law, which imposes harsher punishments for the previously listed infractions.
It said that violators might be subject to a minimum of three years in jail, a fine equal to three times the computed amount of the infringement, or both.
According to industry estimates, theft can account for as much as 40% of Nigeria's energy generation, mainly from unmetered customers who struggle with projected billing.
The law specifically addresses offenses like stealing materials or electric lines, which can carry fines of up to N500,000 or jail time of at least three years and a maximum of five years, or both. Repeat offenders may also face harsher penalties or longer jail sentences.
In terms of enforcement, the law gives electricity providers the authority to disconnect consumers who reject entry for inspection following a required 24-hour written notification.
The law also handles assaults on electricity company employees while they are on the job, carrying penalties of up to N1,000,000 in fines or up to six months in jail, or both.
The National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE), in response to recent increases in electricity tariffs, has denounced the action, stressing the negative impact on citizens' finances.
The Acting General Secretary of NUEE, Dominic Igwebike, highlighted worries about the safety dangers that their members encounter when disconnecting.
He declared, “the hike in the electricity tariff is grossly detrimental to the economic diversification, growth, and wellbeing of Nigerians.”
NUEE demanded that the tariff hike be rescinded, pointing out the difference in the price of energy in Nigeria compared to other nations such as South Africa and Egypt.
They underlined that in order to help Nigerians and the industrial industry, a supportive energy policy is required.
The increase in tariffs, in the opinion of NUEE, may encourage consumers to choose less expensive imports, which would worsen the unemployment rate.
Igwebike further attacked the lack of prior engagement with stakeholders, saying that “the Minister of Power and NERC did not consult with the stakeholders in the sector before the increase.”
However, NUEE questioned the current administration's energy strategy and demanded actions that actually promote the development and well-being of Nigerians, such as the retraction of the recently implemented increase in electricity rates.
No comments:
Leave comment here