By correspondent in Ota.
The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) has partnered with the Special Investigative and Prosecution Task Force (SIPETO) to combat energy theft across its network.
Engr. Francis Agoha, Acting Managing Director, announced this in a statement issued in Ota, Ogun State.
He emphasized IBEDC’s commitment to identifying, investigating, and prosecuting individuals involved in illegal practices such as meter bypass and tampering.
“We maintain a zero-tolerance stance on energy theft and are committed to ensuring offenders face severe consequences,” Agoha said. He noted that energy theft significantly hampers IBEDC’s ability to provide reliable service and urged customers to desist from such activities.
Between January and October 2024, IBEDC recorded over 8,000 cases of energy theft, resulting in financial losses amounting to hundreds of millions of naira.
Agoha,who said that the collaboration with SIPETO has enhanced IBEDC’s capacity to detect and prosecute offenders, warned that such crimes woukd not be tolerated.
Customers were also warned of the severe penalties, including imprisonment, as stipulated under the Electricity Act. IBEDC assured that SIPETO patrols remain vigilant, investigating reported cases thoroughly.
For more information or to report energy theft, customers are encouraged to contact IBEDC’s customer service line or visit the company’s website at www.ibedc.com.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
