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IBADAN, OYO, Nigeria- Numerous residents and entrepreneurs in Ibadan have expressed their frustrations regarding the inadequate power supply from the Ibadan Distribution Company (IBEDC). People from various areas within the city reported that the power situation has been dire over the past few days.
The narrative is consistent across Lagelu Local Council, Ibadan North, and other regions. John Adedapo, a resident of Ibadan North Local Council, voiced his concerns about the power situation, mentioning his intention to seek alternative power sources.
A senior official from the Oyo State government, residing in Kolapo Isola Estate, also complained about the power supply, stating, “In my area at Kolapo Isola Estate, it is terrible.”
Wale Owoade, who lives in the Monatan area of Ibadan, criticized the distribution company, noting that the electricity supply has been far from satisfactory.
He shared that despite living in his house for over two years, he has not accumulated more than N10,000 in electricity bills. Owoade remarked, "I have spent over two years in the house but I have not used up to N10,000 electricity bill."
Similarly, Oyenike Adeleke, founder of the Ibadan Entrepreneur Network, echoed these sentiments, indicating that many of her home appliances have been damaged due to inconsistent and low power supply. She stated, “The power supply is terrible. It is too erratic. When it is restored, the voltage is low. It has damaged many of my devices and bulbs.”
In response, IBEDC assured that it is dedicated to enhancing power supply in Ibadan. In a statement provided to The Guardian, the management acknowledged the complaints from residents in Monatan, Kolapo Isola, Bodija, and other areas concerning inadequate power supply and expressed regret for the inconvenience caused.
“IBEDC is committed to delivering reliable and improved electricity services. The current power issues stem from a mix of factors, including load allocation limitations from the national grid, technical malfunctions, and ongoing network upgrades.”
The power company emphasized that it is tackling these challenges through network maintenance and upgrades, stakeholder engagement, deployment of extra resources, and customer engagement.
"IBEDC assures residents that we are continuously working to enhance electricity distribution and appreciate their patience and cooperation. We remain dedicated to serving our customers better," the management added.
Commenting on the situation, energy expert Prof. Adeola Adenikinju highlighted the necessity for improved distribution. “There could be pole collapses and outdated infrastructure. There is a need to improve distribution,” he stated.
