Darkness: Feeder Dispute Leaves Ijede, Others Without Power | ClipTV Online

‎Electricity remains a critical source of livelihood for many Nigerians, despite persistent challenges with the national grid. However, recent developments have further strained access to power, compounding economic hardship for households and businesses.

‎The ongoing global tensions, including the recent crisis involving Iran, have contributed to rising fuel prices nationwide. This challenge is making lives increasingly difficult for many Nigerians to sustain alternative power sources like generators.

‎Amid these challenges, residents of Ijede and its environs in Ikorodu, Lagos State, have been plunged into prolonged darkness. This absolute lack of power follows a dispute with Ikeja Electric.

‎According to sources, electricity supply to several communities, including Abule Eko, Ijede, Gberigbe, and others have been cut off for over a week. The outage has severely impacted businesses and households that rely heavily on stable power.

‎Findings reveal that the crisis began after residents of Abule Eko reportedly took it upon themselves to procure electrical components needed to fix a faulty feeder. A source further stated that the fault had been left unattended despite repeated complaints to Ikeja Electric.

However, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) requested that all electricity equipment including cables, poles, and transformers are to be provided by distribution companies. As part of its regulatory, NERC noted that “the cost of such items have already been incorporated for recovery through the electricity tariff paid by the consumers.”

‎Sources indicate that while the community made efforts to restore power, Ikeja Electric allegedly requested that residents sign an agreement transferring ownership of the newly procured materials to the Ikeja Electric. The community, however, declined to sign the document, insisting that the materials were funded and owned by them.

‎Following this disagreement, electricity supply to the area was reportedly disconnected, affecting thousands of residents and businesses.

‎Although discussions between community leaders and Ikeja Electric officials are said to be ongoing. There is currently no clear timeline for the restoration of power. The company has yet to issue an official statement regarding the situation.

‎Meanwhile, a political figure, Hon. Aro Moshood Abiodun (AMA), Lagos State House of Assembly Member is said to be intervening in efforts to resolve the impasse.

‎Residents continue to express frustration over the situation, calling for urgent intervention. The community members  seek assistance to restore electricity and prevent further economic losses.

‎Residents also note that the darkness is currently threatening the security of lives and properties. Stating that if situation continues, a peaceful protest maybe staged.