By Milcah Tanimu

The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) has revealed that it recorded a staggering 1,459 cases of energy theft by its subscribers during the months of January and February 2024. This disclosure was made in a press statement issued by Mr. Johnson Tinuoye, the Chief Key Accounts Officer of the company.

According to IBEDC, it is actively pursuing investigations and legal actions against individuals and businesses involved in energy theft, collaborating closely with the Federal Government Special Investigation and Prosecution Task Force on Electricity Offences.

The cases of energy theft identified by IBEDC encompass various offenses such as meter bypass and illegal meter tampering, resulting in significant financial losses amounting to hundreds of millions of naira for the company.

Mr. Tinuoye underscored the seriousness of energy theft, highlighting that it not only undermines the integrity of IBEDC’s operations but also deprives the company of the revenue necessary to provide quality services to its customers. He emphasized that under the Electricity Act, energy theft is recognized as a criminal offense carrying severe penalties, including imprisonment.

In a notable development, IBEDC revealed that in the Osun region, two individuals were apprehended for stealing energy through meter bypass and illegal connections. Their cases have been formally charged in court for prosecution.

IBEDC issued a stern warning to customers, urging them to refrain from engaging in any form of energy theft. The company emphasized that the consequences can be severe, with no room for negotiation with the SIPTEO Task Force team, actively patrolling and investigating instances of energy theft for prosecution.