The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) Plc in partnership with the Special Investigation and Prosecution Task Force on Electricity Offences (SIPETO) have ramped up efforts against energy theft across its network.
Acting Managing Director/CEO, Engr. Francis Agoha, in a statement on Tuesday in Ibadan emphasized the company’s zero-tolerance stance on energy theft, highlighting the severe consequences for offenders.
Engr. Agoha reiterated the commitment of the company to identifying, investigating, and prosecuting individuals involved in energy theft.
“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.
“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, “Engr. Agoha stated.
Engr. Agoha stressed the importance of the ongoing collaboration with SIPETO: “Our partnership with the Special Investigation and Prosecution Task Force is crucial. It does 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, “he said.
Agoha urged customers to refrain from any form of energy theft, warning that the offense could lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment, as stipulated under the Electricity Act.
“The SIPETO patrols are active and vigilant, investigating reported cases thoroughly. For more information or to report instances of energy theft, customers are encouraged to contact IBEDC’s customer service line or visit the company’s website at www.ibedc.com.
