In an effort to enhance Enugu State’s energy landscape, the EERC Chairman and Commissioners met with the Honourable Attorney General (AG) of Enugu State on 12th September 2024 for a pivotal advocacy session. The discussions focused on ensuring a more holistic legal framework that safeguards investments and promotes a stable energy market.
The meeting highlighted two key areas of collaboration:
- Fast-Tracking Legal Action on Electricity Theft and Vandalism: To protect critical infrastructure and maintain investor confidence, The Commission sought the Ministry of Justice’s support in accelerating the litigation process for cases related to electricity theft and equipment vandalism. With the Enugu State Electricity Law (ESEL) 2023 providing clear penalties for these offences, speeding up trials will help deter future offenders and enhance market integrity. This step is crucial to ensuring that investors can rely on a secure return on investment, particularly in the collection of energy payments.
- Building Stronger Synergy with the Legal Community: The AG pledged full support for EERC’s upcoming stakeholder forum with members of the Bar and Bench, aimed at educating legal professionals on energy-related cases. This initiative will help reduce the risk of frivolous injunctions and create a more streamlined legal process. The AG also underscored the importance of adhering to the state’s three-month pre-action notice requirement, which will facilitate better coordination between legal and energy sector stakeholders.
- This engagement signals a significant step toward a more transparent regulatory , legally secure and investor-friendly energy environment in Enugu State.