- The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) is intensifying efforts to combat energy theft in its Kogi Regional Office, including potential night raids to identify illegal connections.
- Chief Business Officer Olaseni Agunpopo urged customers to settle outstanding bills promptly, emphasising that timely payments are essential for reliable electricity service.
The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) is raising alarm over the increasing incidents of energy theft within its Kogi Regional Office, a persistent issue that has been detrimental to the power sector.
During a recent visit by members of the Correspondents Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists in Lokoja, Chief Business Officer Olaseni Agunpopo addressed the challenges posed by individuals and businesses illegally tapping into the electricity supply and bypassing meters to evade payment.
Agunpopo highlighted that energy theft not only undermines AEDC’s revenue but also adversely affects the quality of service provided to customers and poses risks to public safety. “This is a longstanding issue that we can no longer ignore,” he stated, emphasising the situation’s urgency.
To combat this growing problem, AEDC plans to implement more aggressive measures, including conducting night raids to identify and dismantle illegal connections. Agunpopo noted, “This initiative is crucial for ensuring fair billing for all customers and minimising system losses.”
Through these efforts, the company aims to enhance its service delivery and overall customer satisfaction. In his address, Agunpopo also urged customers with outstanding bills to settle their accounts promptly. He stressed that timely payments are vital for maintaining uninterrupted electricity service throughout the region. “We rely on our customers to fulfil their obligations, as this directly influences our ability to provide reliable power,” he explained.
In addition to addressing energy theft, Agunpopo reassured customers of AEDC’s commitment to handling complaints related to electricity distribution efficiently. He encouraged customers to report any issues they encountered, reinforcing that the company values customer feedback and aims to create a responsive service environment.
The rise in energy theft is not just a financial concern for AEDC; it also has broader implications for the region’s energy infrastructure and community safety. As the company prepares to take decisive action against illegal connections, it hopes to foster a culture of accountability among consumers. By doing so, AEDC aspires to create a more sustainable and reliable electricity supply that benefits all Kogi users.
The ongoing commitment to addressing energy theft and improving service delivery underscores AEDC’s dedication to transforming the electricity distribution landscape in Nigeria, ensuring a brighter future for the company and its customers.