University of Lagos (UNILAG) has been disconnected from the power grid by the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) over an unpaid debt of N1 billion.
‌Gatekeepers News reports that the university’s management revealed in a statement that despite paying N180 million recently, the power supply was abruptly cut off on August 27 without prior notice.
According to the statement, “Despite engaging with the management of EKEDC, the company has declined to reconnect despite previous agreements.”
The institution had been moved from Band B to Band A tariff by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), resulting in a significant increase in its monthly electricity bill.
The university’s management said it had engaged with EKEDC over the exorbitant June bill, reiterating its preference to remain on Band B and its inability to pay more than N180 million per month.
“The University engaged the management of EKEDC over the exorbitant June bill and reiterated its preference to remain on Band B, its absolute incapability to pay bills generated on Band A, its inability to pay more than 180million/month till the end of this budget year and that the outstanding will be captured in the next budget,” the statement further reads.
However, EKEDC’s general manager of corporate communications and strategy, Babatunde Lakasi, attributed the disconnection to recurring accumulated outstanding payments.
He said the N180 million paid by the university only covered a small fraction of the total debt, which currently stands at over N1 billion.
“To set the record straight, UNILAG’s migration from Band B to Band A tariff followed due process, with adequate engagements and communication regarding the implications,” Lakasi said.
He noted that tariff classifications are determined by supply availability and cannot be altered arbitrarily.
“While EKEDC values the relationship with UNILAG, it is important to note that as a distribution company, we procure energy from the market and must meet our remittance obligations to sustain the sector and our business,” Lakasi added.
The university’s management assured the university community that it is working to address the issue with EKEDC and called for calm, announcing that power supply across the campus would be rationed until further notice.
Lakasi acknowledged the inconvenience caused and appealed to the university community for their patience and understanding.
He reiterated EKEDC’s commitment to resolving the issue amicably and in a manner that benefits the parties involved.
The company said it has initiated further discussions with UNILAG to explore feasible solutions, including a phased repayment plan that aligns with the university’s budgetary constraints.
