…as aggrieved protesters issue ‘21 day ultimatum’ to fix faulty transformer

Mfonobong Ukpong ✍️
Residents of ITU in Akwa Ibom State, took to the streets on Monday 27 January, 2025 to protest against the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) over outrageous billing, epileptic power supply and the decision by the electricity company to switch electricity consumers in ITU to the band A.
The protesters, who stormed the PHED office at Afaha-Ube in Itam, carrying placards with various inscription demanded an immediate stoppage of the planned Band A connection, insisting that they want to remain in Band B.

Speaking on behalf of the protesters, the Youth Leader or ITU who gave his name as Chief Ubong Akpan, argued that PHED cannot be moved to Band A without being metered, emphasizing that they reject estimated billing in its entirety. This demand is in line with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) directive that customers must be metered before being upgraded to Band A.

The protesters also expressed frustration over the poor state of power supply in the area, citing frequent outages and inadequate electricity infrastructure. They gave PHED a 21-day ultimatum to fix the transformer in Itam, warning that they will take drastic measures if their demands are not met.
It took the intervention of the Divisional Divisional Officer in-charge of ITU to bring the situation under control.
The protest is a culmination of months of frustration and dissatisfaction with PHED’s services. Residents have complained of arbitrary billing, poor customer service, and inadequate infrastructure. The protest is a call to action for PHED to address these concerns and provide better services to its customers.
PHED has faced criticism for its handling of electricity distribution in Akwa Ibom. The company has been accused of prioritizing profit over customer satisfaction, leading to widespread dissatisfaction amongst electricity consumers.
The ITU protest is a wake-up call for PHED to re-evaluate its priorities and improve its services.
As the 21-day ultimatum ticks away, PHED must take immediate action to address the grievances of its customers. Failure to do so may result in further protests, and damage to the company’s reputation.