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The Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) has disconnected the power supply to the Kaduna Government House due to a N2.9billion debt.
Abdulazeez Abdullahi, Head of Corporate Communication at KEDCO, stated that the government house had not paid for electricity for seven months.
On Friday, the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS) sealed KEDCO over N600 million in tax liabilities. Despite this, Abdullahi noted that the disconnection followed extensive attempts to resolve the issue through consultations and reconciliations.
“In a dramatic move underscoring growing tensions between utility providers and state governments, Kaduna Electric has cut off electricity supply to the Kaduna State Government House and other state government accounts due to unpaid bills,” Abdullahi stated.
“The outstanding balance for electricity consumed from January 2024 to July 2024 alone amounts to N1.166 billion, contributing to a total debt of N2.943 billion.”
Despite a payment of N256 million made on May 9, 2024, for electricity consumed between September 2023 and December 2023, the debt remains substantial.
“This payment, though significant, has not cleared the accumulated arrears,” Abdullahi said.
The disconnection came after repeated attempts to address payment issues, including consultations with state officials.
Other states under the Kaduna Electric franchise, such as Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara, have maintained their accounts in good standing.
A formal disconnection notice was issued on July 21, 2024, and received by the Office of the Governor on July 22, 2024.
Abdullahi emphasized that the decision was a last resort after all other avenues for resolving the payment issue had been exhausted.
The company is now focusing on meeting its financial obligations and ensuring operational stability.
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) had previously intervened by installing an Administrator and Special Board to oversee Kaduna Electric during its transitional period.
The Administrator committed to paying KADIRS N20 million monthly, which has been honored by the current management.
Abdullahi highlighted the need for improved financial management and timely payments by government entities to avoid disruptions in essential services, stating,
“The public and stakeholders await further developments on how the Kaduna State Government will address the arrears and restore power to the affected government offices.”
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