NSCDC Apprehends Electrician and Former IBEDC Staff for Electricity Meter Fraud in Osun
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Osun State Command, has taken two individuals into custody on allegations of conspiracy, meter tampering, and illegal electricity vending. This development underscores ongoing efforts to combat fraudulent activities within the power distribution sector.
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
According to a statement released on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, by ASCI Kehinde Adeleke, the spokesperson for the NSCDC in Osun State, the suspects have been identified as Babatunde, aged 46, and Akin, aged 40. Their arrest followed a formal complaint related to fraudulent manipulations involving a prepaid electricity meter belonging to a customer of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC).
State Commandant Igbalawole Sotiyo provided further insight, explaining that the case was initiated after a customer reported a malfunction with his prepaid meter, which prevented the successful loading of electricity recharge units. In response, the customer enlisted the services of an electrician named Babatunde, who initially assured him that the issue would be rectified.
Investigations conducted by the NSCDC revealed a more complex scenario. Babatunde, upon discovering he could not repair the meter himself, sought assistance from Akin, a former employee of IBEDC in Osun State. This collaboration led to the unlawful formatting of the meter, resulting in 200 units of electricity being reflected on the device without any corresponding payment.
Confession and Detection of Illegal Activities
In his confessional statement, Babatunde admitted to the unauthorized formatting of the meter and the illicit generation of electricity units. The illegal act was subsequently detected by IBEDC during routine monitoring operations, prompting the company to escalate the matter to the NSCDC Osun State Command for a thorough investigation and appropriate legal action.
Commandant Sotiyo issued a stern warning to electricians and other technical service providers, cautioning them against engaging in any form of meter tampering, illegal electricity vending, or activities that could undermine the nation's critical infrastructure. He emphasized the Corps' unwavering commitment to safeguarding essential national assets, including power installations, and affirmed that offenders would face prosecution without hesitation.
Legal Proceedings and Public Advisory
The Commandant assured the public that the suspects would be charged in court upon the completion of the ongoing investigations. Additionally, the NSCDC urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to electricity meters or other public infrastructure to the nearest NSCDC office. This call to action aims to foster community involvement in protecting vital resources and deterring future fraudulent practices.
This case highlights the persistent challenges in the electricity distribution network and the critical role of security agencies in enforcing regulations and maintaining the integrity of national infrastructure.
