AKINWALE ABOLUWADE
The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) Plc. has escalated its campaign against energy theft within its network by partnering with the Special Investigation and Prosecution Task Force on Electricity Offences (SIPETO). This collaboration aims to identify, investigate and prosecute individuals involved in illegal activities such as meter bypass and tampering.
In a statement, IBEDC’s acting Managing Director/CEO, Engr. Francis Agoha, reiterated the company’s zero-tolerance policy for energy theft, citing its adverse impact on service delivery. “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,” he said.
Between January and October 2024, IBEDC reported over 8,000 cases of energy theft, leading to financial losses running into hundreds of millions of naira. The offenses include meter bypass and illegal meter tampering, which undermine the company’s operations and its ability to improve services.
Agoha underscored the importance of the partnership with SIPETO, stating that it enhances the company’s ability to detect and prosecute offenders. “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,” he added.
IBEDC has warned customers against any form of energy theft, highlighting the severe penalties under the Electricity Act, which include imprisonment. The company assured that SIPETO patrols are actively investigating reported cases and urged customers to report any suspected incidents of energy theft.
IBEDC encouraged its customers to reach out through its customer service line or visit the company’s website for more information or to report cases of energy theft.
