By
Fidelis Jockthan
Musiliu Oseni
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has convened a regional seminar for High Court judges from Adamawa and Taraba States, aimed at deepening judicial understanding of the newly enacted Electricity Act 2023.
The three-day seminar, themed “Nigeria Electricity Law: Regulation and the Courts,” is designed to expose judges to key provisions of the new legislation and provide the legal framework necessary for effective adjudication of electricity-related matters across the federation.
Declaring the seminar open, the NERC Chairman, represented by the Vice-Chairman and Commissioner in charge of the Economic Regulation Division, Dr. Sudi Yusuf Ali, emphasized the importance of the dialogue in addressing critical issues shaping the energy landscape.
These include consumer and investor rights, estimated billing, electricity theft and vandalism, metering, and service provider responsibilities.
Dr. Yusuf Ali stressed the need for judges to strike a delicate balance between protecting citizens’ rights, upholding government duties, and safeguarding investor interests in the delivery of justice.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Adamawa State, Barrister Afraimu Jingi, described the discourse as timely, noting that it provides a platform to examine the Electricity Act 2023 and the commission’s evolving regulatory framework.
He highlighted the pivotal role of the courts in shaping market strategy and consumer pricing.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Chief Judge of Adamawa State, Justice Hafsat Abdurahman, and her Taraba State counterpart, Justice Joel Filibus Agya, both of whom underscored the significance of the seminar for judicial officers in their respective states.
The seminar is part of NERC’s deliberate effort to equip judges with up-to-date knowledge for effective legal adjudication in the power sector.
The event will feature thought-provoking papers from distinguished resource persons.
