Osun communities challenge IBEDC claims over worsening electricity supply
Residents of Osogbo Communities Respond to Electricity Company Allegations
Residents of approximately 40 communities in Osogbo, Osun State, have dismissed accusations made by the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) regarding their recent demonstration aimed at addressing inadequate electricity supply.
The residents, organized under the United Communities, stated their case during a press briefing on Thursday at the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo. They alleged that IBEDC has engaged in intimidation and spread misinformation regarding the nature of their protest.
Dr. Nasiru Mohammed, representing the group, reiterated that the demonstration was peaceful and lawful. He noted that the communities had issued a seven-day ultimatum to IBEDC, demanding improved electricity supply, which expired without any action from the company.
“Today marks the expiration of that seven-day ultimatum. Unfortunately, instead of improvement, the situation has deteriorated further,” Mohammed said. He reported that many residents experienced less than nine hours of electricity total within the last week.
The communities accused IBEDC of responding to the protest by filing a complaint with the Department of State Services (DSS) in Osun State, alleging that protesters engaged in harassment and violence. Mohammed refuted these claims, asserting that the protest was orderly and supervised by police.
“We unequivocally state that this allegation is false. The protest organized by the United Communities was peaceful, disciplined, and lawful,” he said. Mohammed emphasized that law enforcement officers accompanied the protesters throughout the demonstration, ensuring no violence or property damage occurred.
The group reiterated their demand to be restored to Band A electricity supply, which allows for longer hours of service.
In response to community concerns, IBEDC officials previously met with civil society organizations, security agencies, and community leaders in Osogbo to discuss the ongoing challenges affecting electricity distribution.
Company spokesperson Daniel Adugbo stated that the decline in electricity supply is linked to reduced gas availability for power generation across Nigeria.
“What is happening is a national issue. There are constraints in gas production, and most power plants depend on gas to generate electricity,” Adugbo explained. He added that the limited supply from the national grid has necessitated load shedding throughout the company’s service areas.
