The Southsouth leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the persistent erratic power supply and estimated billing affecting students in tertiary institutions across Delta State.

The NANS Zone B (Southsouth) Coordinator, Victor Ogechukwu, made the association’s position known during a meeting in Asaba, describing the situation as exploitative and unacceptable.

Ogechukwu expressed concern over prolonged power outages and, in some cases, total blackouts in campuses and student residential areas, noting that the situation has worsened living and learning conditions for students.

He criticised the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) for issuing what he termed inflated estimated bills despite poor or non-existent electricity supply, describing the practice as “paying for darkness.”

According to him, the development goes beyond service inefficiency, placing additional financial strain on students already facing academic and economic challenges.

The student leader outlined key demands, including the immediate end to estimated billing in student-populated areas, the urgent provision of prepaid meters, and the restoration of stable electricity supply.

He also issued a seven-day ultimatum to relevant authorities to present a clear and actionable plan for metering campuses and student lodges, warning that the association would take further steps if the demands are not met.