With an alarming rate of energy theft in its franchise area, the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) Plc has said that it is partnering with the Special Investigation and Prosecution Task Force on Electricity Offences (SIPETO) to identify, investigate, and prosecute individuals involved in energy theft.
Acting Managing Director/CEO, Engr. Francis Agoha, emphasized the company’s zero-tolerance stance on energy theft, highlighting the severe consequences for offenders. “Energy theft is a significant challenge that impacts our ability to provide reliable service to our customers. We are intensifying our efforts through partnerships like this to ensure that those who engage in such practices face the full force of the law,” Agoha stated.
Between January and October 2024, IBEDC recorded over 8,000 cases of energy theft, including meter bypass and illegal meter tampering, resulting in financial losses totaling hundreds of millions of naira.
ALSO READ:
- SANWO-OLU SIGNS LAGOS ELECTRICITY BILL
- NNPC Committed to Advancing Local Content in Nigeria’s Energy Sector
- TCN Restores Bulk Power Supply via Ahoada-Yenagoa 132kV Line
- NAE, STAC Marine celebrate one year of partnership, sign Pact for Safety
- Hybrid Group graduates 15 HSE trainees in Lagos
Agoha stressed the importance of the ongoing collaboration with SIPETO: “Our partnership with the Special Investigation and Prosecution Task Force is crucial. It not only enhances our capacity to detect and prosecute offenders but also sends a strong message that energy theft will not be tolerated. This undermines the integrity of our operations and deprives us of resources needed to improve service delivery.”
IBEDC urges customers to refrain from any form of energy theft, warning of the severe penalties, including imprisonment, as stipulated under the Electricity Act. The company assures customers that SIPETO patrols are active and vigilant, investigating reported cases thoroughly.