BEDC Electricity Plc has dismissed allegations that it is deliberately marginalising electricity consumers in Edo State, stating that the current power supply challenges are the result of reduced allocation from the national grid rather than any targeted action against customers.
The company’s Head of Branding and Corporate Communications, Evelyn Gbiwen, made the clarification in a statement issued in Benin City on Thursday while responding to accusations by Edo People Against the Oppressive Tendencies of BEDC, which had earlier threatened protests over alleged poor service delivery in the state.
Gbiwen explained that the recent decline in electricity supply affecting homes, businesses, and public institutions across BEDC’s coverage areas is tied to limitations in power generation and distribution nationwide. According to her, the outages and load management currently being experienced are not intentional but stem from reduced energy allocation from the national grid.
She noted that the development is part of a broader national supply challenge impacting distribution companies across Nigeria, adding that BEDC is working with relevant stakeholders to improve supply conditions as energy availability stabilises.
The company further stated that Edo State continues to receive a significant share of its daily energy allocation across its operational regions, contrary to claims that the state is being sidelined. Gbiwen said the reduced allocation has made careful load distribution necessary in order to maintain fairness across service bands.
As part of efforts to improve transparency and service delivery, BEDC said it is intensifying its metering rollout to reduce estimated billing and strengthen customer confidence. The company listed three available metering options—Meter Asset Provider (MAP), Meter Asset Fund (MAF), and Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP)—noting that the MAF and DISREP meters are being provided at no cost to customers under Bands A, B, and C across its franchise areas.
She also urged customers to report any individual demanding payment for the installation of free meters, reiterating the company’s commitment to equitable electricity distribution, infrastructure protection, and ongoing engagement with host communities.
BEDC assured customers that efforts are ongoing within its operational capacity to minimise the impact of the supply shortage while calling for continued patience and cooperation.
