The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) has significantly escalated its campaign against electricity-related crimes, securing multiple arrests and initiating legal proceedings against offenders throughout its operational network.
Violent Confrontation in Ibadan
In a recent incident that highlights the growing tension between utility providers and consumers, Mrs Adebola Arowona of Oluyole Estate, Ibadan now faces legal action for allegedly assaulting IBEDC personnel and vandalizing company property.
The confrontation occurred on Saturday, November 15, 2025, when IBEDC officials conducted a routine inspection at Mrs Arowona's residence. During the inspection, clear evidence of meter tampering and energy theft was discovered, prompting the team to initiate disconnection procedures.
According to the company's statement, the situation turned violent when Mrs Arowona, assisted by a middle-aged man believed to be her husband, resisted the disconnection. The woman allegedly pushed an IBEDC worker off a ladder and slapped another staff member.
A viral video captured part of the altercation, showing the moment Mrs Arowona picked up a stone and smashed the windscreen of the company's Hilux vehicle. She has since been arrested and charged in court, while the suspected husband remains at large and is wanted by police authorities.
Widespread Crackdown on Electricity Offenses
In a coordinated effort with the Special Investigation and Prosecution Taskforce on Electricity Offences (SIPTEO), IBEDC has finalized arrangements to prosecute numerous cases of energy theft across its network.
The company has identified multiple offenders scheduled for prosecution in the Osun region, including:
- Adesanya Nurudeen
- Afiz Jimoh
- Twins Innovatives Services
- D.C. Hotel & Suites
- Pick & Go Supermarket
- Easy Mummy Eatery
- Platinum & Embassy Hospital
- Beehive Automobile
- LADSOL Ventures
- Forever Energy
- G-Unit Hotel
These cases have been scheduled for hearing in various courts within IBEDC's franchise area, signaling the company's determination to address the persistent problem of energy theft.
Zero-Tolerance Stance and Community Cooperation
IBEDC management has expressed serious concern about the increasing incidents of energy theft, vandalism, and assaults on its workforce. The company has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy toward all illegal activities targeting its infrastructure and personnel.
In their official statement, IBEDC emphasized: "We intend to pursue this case to its logical conclusion to serve as a deterrent to others. Efforts are ongoing to ensure the culprit is prosecuted."
The electricity distributor has stressed the importance of stronger community cooperation in combating these challenges. IBEDC remains committed to collaborating with security agencies and community stakeholders to identify, apprehend, and prosecute offenders while continuing to invest in infrastructure improvements and service delivery enhancements across its coverage area.
