The Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc, (AEDC) has decried the accumulation of over one year electricity debt by the Federal Capital Territory Water Board, which it said led to the disconnection of electricity to the board.
AEDC in a public notice at the weekend noted that the board has refused to clear up the debt despite several notices, engagements and opportunities provided to regularise the account, in line with applicable regulatory provisions.
“The Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc. (AEDC) acknowledges the concerns and spirited appeals from residents of the Federal Capital Territory following the disruption to water supply arising from the recent disconnection of electricity to the FCT Water Board over unpaid electricity bill.
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“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.
It however, stated that Chijioke Okwuokenye, acting Managing Director AEDC, in recognition of the critical importance of water supply to public health and community wellbeing, and following widespread concerns expressed by residents, has directed the immediate reconnection of electricity supply to the FCT Water Board, in order to enable the prompt restoration of water services across affected areas of the FCT.
This decision, according to the company, underscores it’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.
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The reconnection is, however, granted on a conditional basis as the AEDC 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.
“While AEDC remains open to engagement and collaborative solutions, it must be stated that failure to meet this obligation within the stipulated period will regrettably leave the company with no alternative but to reapply service disconnection, in accordance with regulatory guidelines.
“AEDC reiterates that disconnection remains a measure of last resort and assures residents of its continued commitment to transparent engagement, regulatory compliance and the delivery of sustainable electricity services in the Federal Capital Territory,” it stated.
