The United Premier Movement (UPM), pressure group Abeokuta, Ogun State Capital has accused the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), Ogun state region of nonchalant towards electricity consumers in the state.
In a statement by the convener of the movement, Hon. Olalekan. Shoyinka, pointed out that the continued silence and apparent disregard for customers by the company have reached an alarming level and are now a source of serious public concern.
He said: “It has gradually become a disturbing norm for IBEDC and its various business hubs across Ogun State to leave customers completely in the dark—both literally and figuratively—whenever there is a power outage. What makes this situation far worse is not just the epileptic power supply, but the total collapse of communication between the company and its customers.
“There was a time when IBEDC’s Public Relations Unit promptly informed the public about faults, system upgrades, or unavoidable disruptions. Today, that professionalism appears abandoned. The result is growing public frustration, mistrust, and loss of confidence in the company’s capacity to manage power distribution responsibly.”
Shoyinka stated that, ironically during the peak of the rainy season, residents of areas once regarded as long-neglected electricity zones – such as Obantoko, Abiola Way, and surrounding communities within Abeokuta briefly experienced improved power supply, adding that unfortunately, that progress has now collapsed.
He explained that for over two consecutive weeks, large parts of Abeokuta metropolis and its environs have suffered near-total blackouts, in some cases without even two hours of electricity daily. Yet, there has been no official explanation, no public update, and no assurance from IBEDC Ogun Region.
He described the silence as unprofessional, unacceptable, and insensitive to the economic hardship, health risks, and daily suffering being imposed on homes, hospitals, small businesses, students, and artisans who depend heavily on electricity
The organizations however demanded that the electricity company should immediately issue a public statement explaining the exact cause of the ongoing blackout in Abeokuta and surrounding communities.
Other demand listed include – need to provide a clear restoration timeline so residents and businesses can plan accordingly, re-activate consistent communication channels through radio, social media, SMS alerts, and official press briefings and treat customers with dignity, transparency, and respect, not as expendable subjects
“Electricity consumers are not beggars. They are law-abiding, bill-paying citizens who deserve honesty, accountability, and timely information. Power distribution is a public service anchored on trust—and that trust is now dangerously eroding.
“If this silence persists, affected communities will have no option but to lawfully seek collective action through consumer protection agencies, civil society organisations, and relevant regulatory authorities. IBEDC must act now – urgently and responsibly,” Shoyinka warned.