Daniel Adaji
Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc (AEDC) has reconnected electricity supply to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Water Board following public outcry over disruptions to water supply in Abuja, but has issued a firm two-week deadline for the settlement of outstanding electricity debts.
In a holding statement issued on Saturday, AEDC explained that the earlier disconnection was due to 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.”
The power distributor acknowledged the concerns raised by residents across the FCT, noting that the outage had directly affected water availability in several areas of the capital.
However, AEDC said the decision to restore power was driven by public interest considerations. According to the statement, “in recognition of the critical importance of water supply to public health and community wellbeing, and following widespread concerns expressed by residents,” the Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of AEDC, Engr. Chijioke Okwuokenye, “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.”
The company described the move as a reflection of its responsibility to the communities it serves, stressing that “access to essential services must be safeguarded, particularly where public health and safety are concerned.”
AEDC, however, made it clear that the reconnection was not unconditional. The company disclosed that it had “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 reiterating its willingness to engage, AEDC warned that failure to comply would attract consequences. “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,” the statement said.
The electricity distributor further emphasized that “disconnection remains a measure of last resort,” assuring residents of its “continued commitment to transparent engagement, regulatory compliance and the delivery of sustainable electricity services in the Federal Capital Territory.”
The statement was signed by Omede Odekina, Head, Brand Marketing & Corporate Communications, Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc.
