By Mary Izuaka

 

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has commended the Edo State Judiciary for adopting the Edo State High Court (Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry) Practice Directions, 2026.

NERC, in a statement on Tuesday, said this is a significant milestone in strengthening the legal and regulatory framework governing the power sector.

It explained that the practice directions formally introduced by the Edo State Judiciary under the leadership of the Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa, took effect on 25 May 2026.

“This milestone is a direct fruition of the commission’s sustained engagement with state judiciaries to dismantle the litigation bottlenecks that have historically constrained the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI),” the statement said.

ALSO READ: Electricity: NERC approves 20% compensation for Band A customers affected by grid shortfalls

The commission said the direction provides active case management and expedited hearing of all Edo State electricity market-related matters.

It mandates the exhaustion of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms before the commencement of court proceedings.

Other key features include the recognition of electronic service of court processes via email and WhatsApp as a valid service, streamlined procedures for appeals arising from the Edo State Electricity Regulatory Commission’s decisions, including a 30-day filing period and accelerated hearing timelines and the establishment of a dedicated Register of Edo State Electricity Market Claims to be maintained by the Court Registrar.

“NERC views the adoption of these Practice Directions as a critical step towards enhancing investor confidence, strengthening regulatory enforcement, and promoting the timely and efficient resolution of disputes within the Edo State electricity market,” it said.