Electricity distribution: BEDC, Ondo govt on warpath

By Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja

The Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) and the Ondo Government are on warpath over distribution of electricity in the state.

This followed recent announcement by the Special Assistant to the Ondo Governor on Power, Engr. Johnson Alabi at a stakeholders meeting in Akure, the state capital that the state will take over power distribution in some parts of the state because the BEDC had failed in its responsibility to provide adequate power supply to the residents. .

Alabi also revealed that Ondo State Government would invest $5 million for power distribution after taking over from BEDC to ensure adequate distribution of electricity to all residents of the state.

“ The state government is prepared to take over the distribution of networks in Ondo so that we will be able to bring electricity to the door step of all consumers in the state. We are considering putting in about $5 million into the distribution of Ondo State, this I can assure you will improve the network of Ondo State significantly

“In my office, everyday people come in with request for transformer and cables. Situations were people are contributing money for transformers, poles, electric cables is no longer acceptable in Ondo State. The utility company should take charge of the distribution, and since they have been unable to do so, the Ondo State government is ready to take over and we will relate with them,” Alabi said.

But BEDC described alleged plan by Ondo government to assume control of electricity distribution operations in the state as illegal, provocative, and disruptive to ongoing partnerships between it and the state government.

Illegal, Provocative, Disruptive

BEDC its subsidiary, BEDC Electricity Ondo Limited (BEOL) said this in a statement on Friday while the Electricity Act 2023 empowers states to regulate their electricity markets, it does not authorise them to unilaterally take over distribution operations.

The statement released on Friday in Benin was signed by BEDC Chief Revenue Cycle Manager, Mr Collins Igwe.

BEDC stated that the move would violate the joint communiqué reached after a strategic meeting between BEDC/BEOL and the Ondo state government aimed at addressing power challenges.

“Any such move undermines the spirit of collaboration and mutual understanding agreed upon to resolve electricity issues in the state.

“We have a legal mandate to operate in Ondo. This attempted encroachment is unacceptable,” Igwe said.

He emphasised that the power supply challenges in Ondo were part of broader national issues, and reiterated BEDC’s commitment—through BEOL—to implementing long-term, sustainable solutions.

“We are open to partnerships, but any approach must respect due legal processes and the agreements made in good faith,” he added.

Igwe also explained that the jointly signed communiqué established a clear roadmap for collaborative solutions.

He said it recommended the creation of a power supply committee to address electricity access in underserved and unserved communities through a mutually agreed framework.

The company warned that any unilateral action or interference in its operations would constitute a breach of agreement and could disrupt electricity distribution services across the state.

“The company reaffirmed that it remains the duly licensed operator in Ondo and will protect its infrastructure in line with Nigerian laws and regulatory standards.

“We call on those currently attempting to interfere with our infrastructure to desist immediately to avoid legal consequences,” the statement said.

Igwe further urged the public to disregard the controversial publication, describing it as misleading, unauthorised, and detrimental to ongoing collaborative efforts.

He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to delivering improved electricity services in Ondo state, prioritising transparency, legal compliance, and community engagement.

“We remain focused on constructive dialogue with all stakeholders to ensure sustained progress and stability in Ondo state’s power sector,” Igwe said.