The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has applauded the Edo State Judiciary for adopting the Edo State High Court Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry Practice Directions, 2026, describing it as a significant step towards overhauling the legal framework governing Nigeria’s power sector.
The Practice Directions, which took effect on May 25, 2026, were formally introduced under the leadership of the Edo State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa.
NERC described the adoption as a direct result of its sustained engagement with state judiciaries aimed at removing the litigation bottlenecks that have long hampered the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).
Among the key provisions of the new directions is requirement for active case management and the expedited hearing of all electricity market-related matters in Edo State.
Parties will also be required to exhaust Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms before approaching the courts, a measure intended to reduce the burden of litigation on the sector.
The directions also modernise court procedure by recognising electronic service of court processes, including via email and Whatsapp as valid forms of service.
For regulatory appeals, the directions established a 30-day filing window and accelerated hearing timelines for matters arising from decisions of the Edo State Electricity Regulatory Commission.
A dedicated Register of Edo State Electricity Market Claims will also be established and maintained by the court Registrar.
NERC said it views the new framework as critical to enhancing investor confidence, strengthening regulatory enforcement, and ensuring the timely resolution of disputes within the Edo State electricity market.
