The Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc (AEDC) has explained that it disconnected electricity supply to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Water Board due to the agency’s failure to settle electricity bills accumulated over more than one year.
AEDC disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday by its Head of Brand Marketing and Corporate Communications, Omede Odekina.
According to the statement, electricity supply has since been restored following appeals and concerns raised by residents of the FCT. However, the reconnection was granted on a conditional basis.
Odekina explained that the Water Board has been given a two-week ultimatum to present a credible plan to offset its outstanding debts.
“AEDC wishes to clarify that the disconnection followed the accumulation of over one year of outstanding electricity debt by the FCT Water Board, despite several notices, engagements and opportunities provided to regularise the account, in line with applicable regulatory provisions,” he said.
He added that, in view of the critical importance of water supply to public health and community wellbeing, the Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of AEDC, Engr. Chijioke Okwuokenye, approved the immediate reconnection of power to enable the restoration of water services across affected areas of the FCT.
“This decision underscores AEDC’s commitment to the welfare of the communities it serves and reflects the company’s belief that access to essential services must be safeguarded, particularly where public health and safety are concerned,” the statement noted.
Odekina stressed that the reconnection was conditional, stating: “AEDC has formally issued the FCT Water Board a two-week timeline within which to present and begin implementing a credible payment plan towards the settlement of its outstanding electricity obligations.”
He warned that failure to comply with the directive would leave the company with no option but to disconnect power supply again, in line with regulatory guidelines.
While noting that disconnection remains a measure of last resort, Odekina assured residents of AEDC’s continued commitment to transparent engagement, regulatory compliance, and the delivery of sustainable electricity services in the Federal Capital Territory.
Source: vanguard
