IBEDC warns against energy theft
REPUBLICAN NIGERIA gathered that the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) has issued a warning to its customers against engaging in energy theft, stressing that such illegal activities pose serious risks to service delivery and public safety. The company emphasized that it would not hesitate to impose legal and administrative sanctions on offenders.
Angela Olanrewaju, the Coordinating Head of Corporate Services at IBEDC, gave the warning during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Ibadan. She noted that energy theft includes meter bypassing, illegal connections, line tapping, and non-payment for electricity services.
According to her, the company is empowered by law to disconnect customers involved in energy theft without prior notice. Offenders may also face between three and five years imprisonment or be fined, depending on the severity of the offence. In addition, violators are liable for the costs of meter replacement, reconnection, and administrative charges.
Olanrewaju explained that meter tampering is not only illegal but also dangerous, as it could result in fire outbreaks or electrocution. She pointed out that such actions deprive the power sector of critical funds needed for infrastructure upgrades and improved electricity supply to customers.
To curb these illegal practices, IBEDC has introduced a multi-pronged strategy that includes working with the Special Investigation and Prosecution Task Force on Electricity Offences (SIPTEO). The partnership, which began in early 2024, focuses on identifying, investigating, and prosecuting offenders.
The company is also deploying smart meters equipped with Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), which helps monitor usage and detect irregularities. Additionally, IBEDC is standardizing meter installation procedures to make meters less accessible for tampering.
Olanrewaju stated that IBEDC is committed to ensuring that all customers are provided with prepaid meters through various national initiatives. These include the Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI), Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP), Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF), and the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme.
She encouraged customers to apply for meters through the company’s official portal, where they can obtain a meter ID, make payments, and receive installation within 10 working days. With these coordinated efforts, IBEDC aims to achieve over 60 percent metering coverage by the end of 2025.
