The Managing Director/CEO of Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company, Yusuf Usman Yahaya has expressed concern over rising cases of default and failure of some electricity consumers in the company’s franchise to fully pay their monthly electricity bills. He said the development is seriously threatening the ability of the company to sustain its operations.
Yahaya expressed their concern in Zaria yesterday when he visited the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli in his palace.
He said electricity users in the three area offices of the company within Zaria and its environs (Zaria City, Sabon Gari and Samaru) are owing the company N17.5 billion of outstanding electricity bills, a development he said is not only making it difficult for the company to meet its market obligations, but also denying the company of needed funds for sufficient investment in network maintenance and expansion.
He said the first issue he contended with was a notice of withdrawal of bulk power supply to the company by the Market Operator due to huge debt owed the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading (NBET) and the Market Operators (MOs).
The Emir commended the company for initiating the community engagement.
The Emir also suggested the revitalisation of the Community/Kaduna Electric Friends Forum which will provide a platform for sharing ideas. discuss electricity issues and resolve areas of differences.
He promised to support the company as “its success shall ultimately translate into improved socio-economic activities in the emirate.”