The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission has revised its Standard Operating Procedure for Distribution Companies on addressing unauthorised electricity usage, meter tampering, and power bypass nationwide.

The update follows a revelation by the Nigerian Independent System Operator that a steep 60 per cent drop in gas supply to thermal power plants has driven the recent wave of electricity shortages across the national grid.

In its new directive, NERC introduced stricter procedures for Discos to detect, investigate, and sanction electricity theft and related violations within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry.

The commission stated that Discos must now systematically pinpoint areas of suspected unauthorised electricity use by monitoring consumption anomalies, billing irregularities, and other suspicious indicators.

The amended directive instructs electricity distributors to thoroughly analyse consumption data and billing records to uncover discrepancies that could signal illegal connections or meter tampering.

As part of enforcement, NERC also expects Discos to use surveillance methods to monitor suspicious activity in affected areas and collect supporting evidence when needed.

NERC further ordered that meters at suspected locations be physically inspected and tested to confirm any tampering or illegal alterations.

When suspicious activity is detected, Discos must document meter tampering with photographic and video evidence, carried out in the presence of the customer or their representatives.

Discos are also expected to partner with law enforcement agencies to prosecute those involved in electricity theft and illegal connections.