The Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (Ikeja Electric) has announced the inclusion of 23 additional communities in Lagos to its Band A category to raises the total number of Band A feeders to 179.
The Band A electricity category guarantees residents 20 to 24 hours of electricity supply daily.
While the announcement has been met with general approval from some residents, concerns have been raised regarding the associated costs.
The classification into Band A is part of a broader initiative by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) that categorizes electricity consumers based on their daily supply hours. Band A customers are charged N209.5 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for their electricity usage.
Other bands include Band B (16 hours), Band C (12 hours), Band D (8 hours), and Band E (4 hours).
Reactions from the public shows a mix of optimism and skepticism. Some residents expressed gratitude for the improved power supply, while others questioned the fairness of the new pricing structure. Comments on social media reflect concerns about the affordability of electricity in light of rising costs, with one user questioning whether consent was sought before their community's classification change.
Another noted the stark contrast in electricity units received for the same payment, raising issues of transparency and equity in billing practices.
