By Hosea Parah, Abuja
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has announced a significant power outage affecting its campus due to the sudden disconnection of electricity supply by the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC). This disruption comes despite the university’s recent payment of N180 million to the electricity provider.
In a statement released by the university community on Tuesday, the management expressed its disappointment over the abrupt cut-off, which occurred on August 27, 2024, without any prior notification from EKEDC. The university has been embroiled in discussions with EKEDC regarding an astronomical increase in its electricity bills, which soared from an average of N150-180 million per month to an alarming N300 million following a reclassification from Band B to Band A under new tariff regulations set by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
The management of UNILAG emphasized its inability to sustain the higher Band A tariffs, asserting that it could only afford to pay N180 million per month until the end of the current budget year. In a recent meeting with EKEDC, the university reiterated its position, requesting to remain on the more affordable Band B tariff. However, shortly after the discussions, the university was confronted with a staggering bill of nearly N472 million for July, further exacerbating its financial strain.
Despite the university’s commitment to meet its obligations, including the timely payment made on August 20, EKEDC proceeded with the disconnection just a week later. The management assured the university community that it is taking necessary steps to resolve the situation, but in the meantime, power supply will be rationed across the campus.
“The university management regrets the current situation and is dedicated to addressing the issue promptly,” the statement noted. It urged members of the university community to remain calm and informed them that a schedule for power rationing would soon be released to help them plan accordingly.
As the situation unfolds, the University of Lagos continues to seek a resolution with EKEDC, aiming to restore normal power supply and alleviate the challenges faced by students and staff on campus.