IBEDC Fights Energy Thieves With Special Investigative And Prosecution Task Force

LAGOS – The Ibadan Electricity Distribu­tion Company (IBEDC) Plc has ramped up its efforts against en­ergy theft across its network. Partnering with the Special Investigation and Prosecution Task Force on Electricity Offenc­es (SIPETO), IBEDC is committed to identifying, investigating, and prosecuting individuals involved in energy theft. Engr.

Francis Agoha, Acting Managing Director/CEO, , em­phasised the company’s zero-tol­erance stance on energy theft, highlighting the severe conse­quences for offenders. “Energy theft is a significant challenge that impacts our ability to provide reliable service to our customers. We are intensifying our efforts through partnerships like this to ensure that those who engage in such practices face the full force of the law,” Engr.



Agoha stated. Between January and October 2024, IBEDC recorded over 8,000 cases of energy theft, including meter bypass and illegal meter tampering, resulting in financial losses totaling hundreds of mil­lions of naira. Engr.

Agoha stressed the importance of the ongoing col­laboration with SIPETO: “Our partnership with the Special Investigation and Prosecution Task Force is crucial. It not only enhances our capacity to detect and prosecute offenders but also sends a strong message that ener­gy theft will not be tolerated. This undermines the integrity of our operations and deprives us of resources needed to improve ser­vice delivery.

” IBEDC urges customers to refrain from any form of energy theft, warning of the severe penal­ties, including imprisonment, as stipulated under the Electricity Act. The company assures cus­tomers that SIPETO patrols are active and vigilant, investigating reported cases thoroughly..