The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has raised concerns over outrageous electricity billing by distribution companies (DisCos), revealing that his electricity bill surged from N2.7 million in March to a staggering N29 million in April.
Dr. Hamzat shared the revelation on Monday during a roundtable discussion between the Lagos State Government and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), held in Victoria Island. The event was part of efforts to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at improving electricity access in rural communities across the state.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the deputy governor expressed frustration with the billing practices of electricity providers, describing them as unfair and disconnected from reality.
“Power is the common denominator for economic survival, yet our people are burdened with inconsistent and outrageous bills,” Hamzat said.
He cited his own experience as a case in point:
“Last month, the electricity bill for the official residence was N2.7 million. This month, Eko DisCo sent a bill of N29 million. I sent it to the Commissioner for Energy. It’s unbelievable.”
Despite his attempt to switch to a prepaid meter to avoid estimated billing, Hamzat said the process has been unnecessarily complicated.
“I personally purchased a prepaid meter to avoid this, but getting it activated has been a major challenge,” he added.
He also shared the plight of a Lagos resident in the Coker Aguda area of Surulere who was billed N2.8 million—more than the N2 million annual rent for his apartment.
“How can someone pay more for electricity than for rent? It’s simply unacceptable. Our people are suffering due to estimated billing,” he lamented.
Dr. Hamzat, however, applauded the Commissioner for Energy, Engr. Biodun Ogunleye, for championing the partnership with REA to deliver sustainable and stable electricity through solar solutions.
In his remarks, Ogunleye noted that the collaboration with REA would open new opportunities for communities that had previously lacked access to reliable power.
“This partnership marks a significant step forward. For many, it will be the first time in their lives they experience steady electricity,” he said.
“REA has done excellent work in other states, but their presence in Lagos signifies a major milestone.”
The MoU signals a shared commitment to providing alternative power solutions to underserved areas and addressing long-standing electricity challenges in Lagos State.
