Concerned Bayelsa Mr. Ogidi Ben Bara (OBB), has called on the Bayelsa State Government to urgently review the company responsible for the supply and installation of prepaid electricity meters in the state, following growing complaints from consumers over alleged exploitation and excessive charges.
OBB said the complaints from residents and electricity consumers across the state have become increasingly disturbing, with many Bayelsans alleging that the prepaid metering system has placed an additional financial burden on households and businesses.
According to him, the state government should not ignore the concerns being raised by citizens, particularly at a time when many families and businesses are already struggling with the rising cost of living and the high cost of electricity.
He described the situation as a matter requiring urgent government attention, stressing that the objective of prepaid metering should be to promote transparency, accurate billing and accountability—not to create another avenue for consumers to be overcharged.
“The complaints coming from Bayelsans and electricity consumers about the prepaid meter system are becoming too serious to ignore. There is a need for the state government to review the company handling the prepaid meters in the state and examine the process of supply, installation and payment,” OBB said.
He further called for a comprehensive review of the charges associated with the prepaid meters, as well as the terms and conditions under which the company operates in Bayelsa State.
OBB urged the government to engage directly with affected consumers, electricity distribution stakeholders and the company involved to establish the facts and address any areas of concern.
He also called for greater transparency in the metering process, insisting that Bayelsans deserve a system that is fair, affordable and accountable.
“The people of Bayelsa should not be exploited under the guise of providing prepaid meters. Government must protect consumers and ensure that every company operating within the state does so in accordance with approved regulations and in the best interest of the people,” he added.
OBB therefore appealed to the Bayelsa State Government to investigate the complaints and, where necessary, review or reconsider the arrangement with the company responsible for the prepaid meters.
He said such a review would help restore public confidence and ensure that electricity consumers in the state receive a fair and transparent metering service.