By Adekunle Oluwafunmilayo
The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) has appealed for calm among customers across its franchise areas following protests triggered by persistent power supply challenges.
The distribution company urged affected communities to embrace dialogue as efforts continue to improve electricity distribution across its network.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Ibadan, IBEDC acknowledged the inconvenience experienced by residents and businesses and apologised for disruptions caused by the current electricity supply situation.
The company explained that the power shortages affecting many communities within its coverage area are largely linked to challenges within the national electricity supply chain, particularly electricity generation constraints.
According to the firm, gas supply shortages to power generating plants have significantly reduced generation capacity nationwide, resulting in increased load shedding across its service areas.
IBEDC also noted that electricity demand within its franchise has risen considerably in recent months, especially following the addition of more Band A feeders in line with directives from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
However, the company stated that energy allocation from the national grid has remained unstable and, at times, declined, thereby widening the gap between available electricity supply and growing customer demand.
“As a result of these constraints, some communities within our franchise are experiencing supply shortfalls. We fully understand the frustration this has generated among our customers, and we sincerely apologise for the disruption to homes, businesses and economic activities,” the company said.
The firm added that the situation has already sparked protests in some communities within its coverage areas, with other communities reportedly threatening similar actions.
While recognising the right of customers to express their grievances, IBEDC urged residents and community leaders to adopt constructive engagement rather than confrontation.
“The current supply challenges have understandably sparked protests in some communities within our franchise, with more communities threatening to protest. We appeal to our valued customers and communities to embrace dialogue rather than protests,” the statement said.
IBEDC further assured customers that it is engaging stakeholders across the electricity value chain to address the imbalance in energy allocation, restore stability to the national grid and ultimately improve power supply
