… deploys new technologies, safety programmes to protect infrastructure

Oredola Adeola

Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) has revealed that more than 80 percent of individuals apprehended for vandalizing its distribution facilities are ex-employees dismissed for misconduct, urging customers to help safeguard its infrastructure.

Mrs. Rekhiat Momoh, Acting Chief Executive Officer of EKEDC, represented by the General Manager, Revenue Cycle, Mr. Abdulrahman Abdulkadir disclosed this during a customers’ stakeholder forum in the Lekki Business District.

She stated that the company has deployed new technologies to detect and prevent threats to its infrastructure, launched safety training programmes, and upgraded monitoring systems.
“Safety is at the heart of everything we do.

“By protecting our network, we reduce risks and ensure more reliable electricity for all,” she said.

Addressing the rising cases of energy theft and vandalism, the MD revealed that “over 80% of those caught vandalizing our facilities are former employees dismissed for misconduct.”

She therefore urged the public to expose these criminal elements through EKEDC’s confidential whistleblowing platforms and warned that tampering with electrical equipment poses life-threatening risks.

The Managing Director reaffirmed the company’s commitment to safety, infrastructure protection, and customer collaboration, stressing that safety first is a non-negotiable priority and remains central to EKEDC’s operations.

She advised residents in flood-prone areas to switch off circuit breakers during flooding, ensure wires are properly insulated, and unplug appliances to prevent electrical hazards.

On infrastructure upgrades and metering expansion, Mrs. Momoh disclosed that EKEDC is investing millions of naira in upgrading aging infrastructure, especially within the Lekki District.

This includes replacing faulty transformers, outdated equipment, and adding new feeders along the coastline to improve service delivery.

On metering, Band A customers in Lekki were among the beneficiaries of the MAF-Metering scheme under the FG-funded Meter Acquisition Fund.

Customers were urged to update their KYC information to facilitate installations. Addressing concerns about Band A tariffs, Mrs. Momoh assured customers of premium service delivery.
“We’re committed to giving value for every naira paid.

“But energy theft and non-payment remain major setbacks to stable supply,” she said.

EKEDC has introduced a minimum payment policy requiring customers to settle at least 50% of their transformer’s total consumption before supply is restored.

Mr. Osas Airen, President of LECECODA (Orchid Road), praised EKEDC’s responsiveness and transparency. “We’ve seen tremendous change. This engagement shows EKEDC is listening and acting,” he said.

Alhaji Suleman Sanusi from the Whitesands Community area in Lekki, commended the deployment of Rapid Response Teams and called for stronger community support to curb vandalism.

“When we secure the infrastructure, we secure our comfort and economic growth,” Sanusi emphasized.

Mrs. Momoh emphasised that ongoing infrastructure projects are aimed at improving power supply in the Lekki district.

She therefore appealed for customer patience and support as these upgrades roll out in phases.