The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has lauded the Edo State Judiciary for adopting the Edo State High Court (Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry) Practice Directions, 2026, describing the move as a major step toward strengthening the legal and regulatory framework of the electricity sector.
In a statement issued today Tuesday, the commission said the Practice Directions, introduced under the leadership of the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa, came into effect on May 25, 2026.
According to NERC, the development is the result of sustained engagement between the commission and state judiciaries aimed at addressing litigation challenges that have historically hindered the growth and efficiency of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).
“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,” the statement said.
The commission noted that the new Practice Directions provide for active case management and accelerated hearing of disputes relating to the Edo State electricity market.
Among the key provisions is the mandatory exhaustion of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms before parties can commence court proceedings. The guidelines also recognize electronic service of court documents through email and WhatsApp as valid means of service.
In addition, the Practice Directions establish streamlined procedures for appeals arising from decisions of the Edo State Electricity Regulatory Commission, including a 30-day filing period and expedited hearing timelines.
The Judiciary will also maintain a dedicated Register of Edo State Electricity Market Claims through the Court Registrar to facilitate effective case tracking and management.
NERC said the adoption of the Practice Directions would enhance investor confidence, strengthen regulatory enforcement, and ensure the timely resolution of disputes in the state’s electricity market.
The commission expressed optimism that the initiative would serve as a model for other states seeking to create a more efficient and investor-friendly electricity sector following ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s power industry.
