The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) said it is presently unable to supply electricity from its C2 Maitama Substation following the invasion and unlawful encroachment of the facility by land grabbers led by an Assistant Director of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).
In a public notice signed by its management on Friday, AEDC said vital electricity cables and other network infrastructure were damaged during the encroachment, making it “unsafe and technically impossible” to continue supply from the facility.
“The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) regrets to inform customers in Maitama and surrounding areas that it is presently unable to supply electricity from its C2 Maitama Substation following the invasion and unlawful encroachment of the facility by land grabbers led by an Assistant Director of FCDA, Chinedu Okoro,” the statement said.
The C2 Maitama Substation is a critical distribution installation serving homes, businesses, diplomatic missions and government institutions in Maitama and surrounding areas of the Federal Capital Territory.
Petition/condemnation
AEDC said it has petitioned relevant authorities over the activities of individuals, noting that the substation and its land “duly belongs to AEDC.”
The company said it expects “a thorough investigation and appropriate action in accordance with the law.”
“We strongly condemn any encroachment on critical national infrastructure, as such actions deprive communities of essential electricity supply, disrupt economic activities and compromise public interest,” AEDC said.
Restoration plans
The distribution company apologised to affected customers for the disruption and assured that restoration efforts will begin once the substation is secured and damaged infrastructure is rebuilt.
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“AEDC regrets the inconvenience caused and assures customers that restoration efforts will commence as soon as the substation is secured and the damaged infrastructure is rebuilt.
“We appreciate the understanding and support of our customers as we work with the relevant authorities to resolve this unfortunate situation,” the statement said.
ThePreview Media could not immediately reach the FCDA for comments on AEDC’s claims as of press time.
In recent years, attacks and encroachment on electricity infrastructure have been identified as a major challenge to stable power supply in Nigeria, often leading to prolonged outages for consumers.
