Controversy has continued to trail the use of KEDCO’s new electricity prepaid meters in Sokoto State, as residents have unanimously rejected the compulsory installation of the meters in their homes.

The issue has generated widespread concern among electricity consumers across the state metropolis, where the bulk of KEDCO’s customers reside. Residents said the main source of contention is the deduction of huge debts whenever they purchase electricity units.

They alleged that the debts stem from the estimated billing system previously introduced by KEDCO. Some community members interviewed said they fully support the proposed protest, calling it a necessary response.

“If we had united and confronted our problems like this a long time ago, we wouldn’t be in this situation today,” one resident said. Malam Usman Umar Lagazaa, a resident of Gwiwa area in Wamakko Local Government Area, lamented that over N700,000 in debt was incurred through the estimated billing system.

He said he is now expected to have part of that amount deducted each time he purchases units for the new meter. He said: “We don’t want prepaid meters. Kaduna Electricity Consumer’s Forum, come and remove your equipment—we’re already used to living in darkness.”