Residents of Kurudu, Orozo and Karshi on the fringes of the Federal Capital Territory have expressed frustration over what they described as a worsening electricity crisis in their areas.
The communities, serviced by the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company, have reportedly been subjected to erratic power supply for about two months, a development that has disrupted daily activities and crippled businesses.
Findings by our correspondent revealed that electricity supply in the affected areas is highly inconsistent, with some residents claiming they only receive power for a few seconds in a day.
The residents further accused the distribution company of issuing high estimated bills despite the near-total absence of electricity.
A Kurudu-based hairdresser, Jennifer, lamented that the situation had made it difficult for her to keep her business afloat.
She said, “It has been a serious challenge. At times, I cannot even work because I rely on a generator, and fuel is now very expensive, selling for about N1,300 per litre. It is becoming unbearable.”
Also speaking, a welder, Mr Ogidi, said the unpredictable nature of the power supply had negatively affected his means of livelihood.
“I cannot work efficiently when electricity comes for just a few seconds and disappears. I have lost several jobs because I cannot assure customers of steady power,” he said.
A cold room operator, Mrs Udoka, disclosed that she had no choice but to suspend operations due to the high cost of alternative power.
“I had to shut down my business because running a generator is too expensive. It is affecting both my income and my goods,” she said.
Kazeem, who operates a laundry service in the area, said the brief and irregular supply was of no practical use.
“Sometimes, we only see light for less than a minute before it goes off again. It is difficult to survive like this,” he said.
In Mararaba Loko, a neighbouring community in Nasarawa State, residents said they were facing a similar situation, with electricity supply described as a rarity.
A tailor, Mrs Chidera, complained that the poor supply had made planning impossible for business owners in the area.
“We hardly have light here. At times, it comes for just a few seconds, yet the prepaid meter runs as if power is constant. It is very frustrating,” she said.
Reacting, the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company admitted there was a problem and apologised to customers for the inconvenience caused.
The company, in a statement posted on its official social media handles, assured residents that the situation was not intentional and would be resolved once power allocation improves.
“We are aware that supply to Kurudu has been very poor lately and we sincerely apologise. Please be assured that supply will be restored to normal when allocation increases,” the statement read.
Despite the assurance, affected residents have called for immediate action, stressing that the prolonged blackout is placing severe strain on their livelihoods and daily survival.
